M65.222

Clinical Causes: Degeneration of the shoulder tendons over time Repetitive shoulder movements or overuse Tendon trauma or injury Imbalance in calcium and phosphate levels in the body Age-related changes in tendon tissue Genetic predisposition or family history Poor shoulder biomechanics or posture

Key Symptoms: Sudden or gradual onset of shoulder pain Pain localized to the front or side of the shoulder Pain worsening with shoulder movement or at night Limited range of motion in the affected arm Tenderness upon palpation of the shoulder Swelling or warmth in the shoulder region Possible sensation of crepitus (crackling) during movement

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis of calcific tendinitis involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging studies. A healthcare provider will review symptoms and perform a physical exam to assess pain points, range of motion, and tenderness. Imaging techniques are essential for confirming the presence of calcium deposits, with X-rays being the most common. Ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be employed to evaluate the extent of tendon inflammation and the size and location of calcium deposits. These diagnostic tools help differentiate calcific tendinitis from other shoulder conditions, such as rotator cuff tears or bursitis.

Treatment Protocols: Management of calcific tendinitis often begins with conservative approaches aimed at reducing pain and inflammation: - Rest and activity modification to avoid aggravating movements - Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and reduce inflammation - Physical therapy exercises to improve shoulder mobility and strengthen surrounding muscles - Application of ice packs to minimize swelling - Ultrasound-guided needling (barbotage) to break down calcium deposits if symptoms persist - Corticosteroid injections to control inflammation in severe cases If conservative treatments fail, more invasive procedures such as surgical removal of calcium deposits or arthroscopic debridement may be considered. Additionally, addressing underlying causes like calcium metabolism imbalance or postural issues can be beneficial. A healthcare professional will tailor treatment plans based on individual patient needs and response to initial therapies.