Physiotherapy treatment at Vitalis, Sinnamon Park
Conditions we treat

Calcific Tendonitis of the Shoulder Treatment in Sinnamon Park

Calcific tendonitis (or tendinopathy) of the shoulder is a painful condition where calcium deposits form inside the tendons. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, our treatment of calcific tendonitis aims to:

Restore Movement Reduce Pain Optimise Recovery
About the condition

What is calcific tendonitis of the shoulder?

The shoulder has what’s known as arotator cuff, which is a group of muscles, which via the tendons attach to the shoulder. Calcific tendinopathy develops as a result of calcific deposits on or around the tendons and muscles of the rotator cuff. These deposits put pressure on the tendons, reducing the space they have to move, and can lead to inflammation and impingement (pinching of the tendons).

Causes

What are the types and causes?

There are two types of calcific tendonitis of the shoulder:

This reactive calcification is fairly common between the age of 40 and 60, though is mostly unrelated to injury, trauma or other degenerative conditions like osteoporosis. There is emerging research investigating the link between calcific tendinopathy in the shoulder to thyroid issues, diabetes and possible genetic predispositions.

  • Pre-calcific – painful movement and decreases range of movement
  • Calcific – calcium is releases which form deposits, later being reabsorbed by the body which causes most of the pain and discomfort
  • Post-calcific – the tendon heals and is replaced with healthy tissue
Symptoms

What are the symptoms?

  • Pain varies, depending on calcific stage Mild to moderate, or none at all in the pre-calcific stage Constant/nagging pain during calcific/re-absorption stage
  • Mild to moderate, or none at all in the pre-calcific stage
  • Constant/nagging pain during calcific/re-absorption stage
  • Stiffness/inability to move the arm or shoulder
  • Tenderness of rotator cuff
  • Reduced range of movement
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Swelling and bruising
Treatment

Treatment for calcific tendonitis

If you suspect you have a calcific tendinopathy in your shoulder, it is important to see a medical professional. You will likely be referred for an Ultrasound or X-ray to determine the extent of the condition.

Physical therapy is highly beneficial in reducing pain and inflammation. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, we tailor a unique treatment plan to aid in your recovery through:

If the pain and reduced movement is severe, driving and strenuous activity should be avoided. Your physiotherapist may also advise heat or ice application, rest and if necessary, pain medication. Additionally, they might recommend for you to use neck support or a suitable pillow.

  • Stretching, strengthening and/or conditioning exercises
  • Restoring range of movement
  • Postural improvement
  • Soft tissue mobilisations (massage)
  • Shockwave Therapy
  • Dry needling
  • Taping
  • A unique home exercise program
  • Graded Exposure to load program
Where to find us

Treating Calcific Tendonitis of the Shoulder in Sinnamon Park

Sinnamon Park Village, 3/58 Oldfield Road — ground floor, parking at the door. Patients come to us from across Brisbane’s western suburbs.

Sinnamon ParkJindaleeMount OmmaneySeventeen Mile RocksRiverhillsMiddle ParkWestlakeSumnerDarraOxleyCorindaJamboree Heights

Can’t get to the clinic? We also offer home visits. Not sure this is what you have? See all conditions we treat.

Get it assessed properly

The sooner this is looked at, the shorter the recovery usually is. Book online in under a minute, or call and describe what is going on.

No referral needed — bring one only if you are claiming through Medicare, DVA or WorkCover.