View source for Calcific tendinitis

==Background==
*Self-limiting disorder of calcium deposition w/in one or more tendons of the rotator cuff
**With time, the calcium undergoes painful resorption w/ subsequent tendon healing
*Middle-aged pts are most commonly affected (rarely seen in pts >70yrs)
*Adhesive capsulitis is most common complication

==Clinical Features==
*"Calcification" phase
**Pt may be asymptomatic or have mild pain at rest or at night
*"Resorptive" phase (1-2wks)
**Sudden onset of severe pain, usually at rest, worse at night
**Any shoulder motion reproduces significant pain
**TTP over proximal humerus near tendinous insertion of rotator cuff
*"Postcalcific phase: variable levels of pain and shoulder dysfunction

==Diagnosis==
*Imaging
**Plain films will show calcification in the tendon(s) of the rotator cuff
**Note: calcification is not specific for calcific tendinitis (may occur in asymptomatic pts)
[[File:Calcific_Tendinitis.jpg‎]]

==Treatment==
*Nonoperative management is successful in 90% of cases
*Analgesia
**NSAIDs, opioids
*Avoid immobilization
**Rest shoulder in abduction on back of a chair as soon as tolerable
**Sleep w/ pillow beneath axilla

==Disposition==
*PMD referral within 1wk

==See Also==
*[[Shoulder Physical Exam Tests]]
*[[Biceps Tendinitis]]

==Source==
*Tintinalli

[[Category:Ortho]]