Please note: Our Online Booking tool is currently down, please contact us on 0330 088 7800 to arrange your appointment and we will honour any online booking discount.

 

  • Book now

we work with

  • Individuals

  • Solicitors

  • Case
    Managers

  • Intermediaries

  • Organisations

  • Health
    Professionals

 

  • Our Clinics

 

  • Contact us

Close Icon

What is it calcific tendinopathy?



The rotator cuff is a group of four small muscles in the shoulder. They are important as they support and move the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff muscles all attach to the arm bone by tendons. Calcific tendinopathy is the laying down of calcium deposits within one or more of these tendons. Physiotherapy is an excellent way to treat calcific tendinopathy.


Physiotherapist supervising isometric exercises to alleviate painAbove: Physiotherapist supervising isometric exercises to alleviate pain



What causes calcific tendinopathy?



The exact cause of calcific tendinopathy is unknown. It is thought that it is caused by overuse or injury to a rotator cuff tendon. The most commonly involved tendon is that of the supraspinatus muscle. Repetitive use of this muscle can cause wear and tear of the supraspinatus tendon. This can lead to the laying down of calcium deposits within the tendon and also cause inflammation or swelling.


What are the symptoms of calcific tendinopathy?



Calcific tendinopathy results in pain felt in the upper arm and shoulder. This pain is often described as an intense aching sensation. It is often present when the arm is at rest and is worsened by movement of the arm. Other symptoms include:

What should I do if I have calcific tendinopathy?



Calcific tendinopathy usually does not get better without treatment. If you have or suspect you have calcific tendinopathy you should contact Physio.co.uk and arrange a physiotherapy assessment.


Calcific tendinopathy is when there is a build up on calcium which increases pressure on the supraspsinatus tendon. It can be extremely painful if untreated.Above: Calcific tendinopathy is when there is a build up on calcium which increases pressure on the supraspsinatus tendon. It can be extremely painful if untreated.



Calcific tendinopathy of the rotator cuff physiotherapy treatment



Physiotherapy is important in the treatment of calcific tendinopathy. Initially, your physiotherapist will diagnose the problem and determine its severity. This may require the referral for imaging techniques such as an X-ray or MRI. From this, your physiotherapist will be able to determine an appropriate treatment plan. This can involve activity modification, the taking of anti-inflammatory medications and, in some cases, an injection of a small amount of anti-inflammatory into the affected tendon. Other physiotherapy treatments include:
  • Ultrasound
  • Manipulation / Mobilisation
  • Acupuncture
  • Soft Tissue Treatment
  • Taping

What shouldn’t I do if I have calcific tendinopathy?



If you suspect you have calcific tendinopathy you should not ignore the problem. This may lead to your injury getting worse. If this occurs your recovery may be prolonged.


Does calcific tendinopathy have any long-term effects?



Calcific tendinopathy does not usually cause any long-term effects if it is properly diagnosed and treated. Without treatment it can lead to prolonged pain in the upper arm and a prolonged lay-off from participation. In some situations, this may occur despite appropriate treatment. In these cases, surgery may be required to remove the calcium deposits and alleviate your pain.

To arrange a physiotherapy appointment call Physio.co.uk on 0330 088 7800 or book online.


Call us on: 0330 088 7800
Phone: 0330 088 7800
Call us on: 0330 088 7800
Mobile: 0330 088 7800
Email us on: office@physio.co.uk
Contact us by post: Our addresses
 
Get treated today!

We have immediate appointments available today. Contact us to make an appointment.

Find out more »

We are open...

Our clinics are open:
Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 9am - 4pm

 
Find your nearest clinic

Physio.co.uk have clinics located throughout the North West.

Find out more »

Physiolates - Pilates in Manchester Massage.physio.co.uk - View our services