Treating Calcific Tendinitis Glastonbury
Solutions for Stiff & Aching Tendons
If a tendon is constantly subjected to stress, such as repetitive movements, it gets irritated. One of the ways the body tries to protect itself against ongoing and further damage in the tendon is by depositing calcium in it. Think of it as a type of callus that forms in the stressed part of the tendon. Over time, the calcium deposit forms a nodule that can catch and cause calcific tendinitis. We can address chronic pain by treating calcific tendinitis in Glastonbury with regenerative medicine.
How is Calcific Tendinitis Diagnosed?
The most accurate and simplest way to diagnose calcific tendinitis is with a diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound. Ultrasound is more sensitive than either X-ray imaging or an MRI at identifying calcium deposits in tendons. Better yet, it can be done right here in our office! It’s completely painless and doesn’t involve X-ray radiation exposure.
How is Calcific Tendinitis Treated?
We always recommend trying a conservative approach first, consisting of physical therapy and perhaps special soft tissue treatments such as A.R.T. (Active Release Technique®) or Graston® treatment. Judicious use of corticosteroid injections may also be considered.
If the calcium deposit is small enough, sometimes it can be broken up with a needle and sucked out. The area is numbed first with some anesthetic, and a needle is guided into the calcium deposit using ultrasound guidance. The needle is used to chip the deposit into tiny pieces that are then sucked out.
When more conventional measures fail, here at the New England Stem Cell Institute, we use a special treatment known as the TenJet® to remove the calcium deposit non-surgically. The TenJet is like a power washer for tendons. After we numb up the target area, we insert the TenJet device, which is like a very small wand, and we guide it to the calcium deposit using ultrasound guidance. The TenJet® shoots pulses of high-pressure saline into the calcium deposit, breaking it up. Then, the pieces are sucked out through the wand. The entire process is virtually painless and is done right here in the office.
Calcific Tendinitis FAQs
Will Calcific Tendinitis Go Away on Its Own?
Calcific tendinitis sometimes improves without intervention, as your body may gradually reabsorb the calcium deposits. We often observe patients experience relief with rest, gentle movement, and conservative therapies. It may take a year or longer for the condition to completely resolve itself, though periods of intense pain usually last just a few days to a few weeks.
However, keep in mind that symptoms vary and some individuals have persistent pain. If you have ongoing pain, or if your pain is interfering with your daily activities, we recommend that you consult us for tailored treatment options.
What Are the Stages of Calcific Tendinitis?
Calcific tendinitis typically progresses through three distinct stages:
- Pre-Calcific Stage: In this initial phase, the tendons undergo changes that make them susceptible to calcium deposits. There may be mild discomfort, but many people do not experience noticeable symptoms during this time.
- Calcific Stage: Calcium crystals are actively deposited into the tendon. This stage is often associated with significant pain, inflammation, and restricted movement, especially when the calcium deposits begin to reabsorb.
- Post-Calcific Stage: The body gradually reabsorbs the calcium deposits, leading to symptom improvement. Pain and inflammation decrease, and normal tendon function can return as healing progresses.
What Is the Difference Between Calcific Tendinitis and Frozen Shoulder?
Calcific tendinitis involves painful calcium deposits in the tendons, usually affecting the shoulder. Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, causes stiffness and loss of movement due to inflammation of the joint capsule. These conditions have some symptoms in common, and they are often confused with one another.
We can help you distinguish between these conditions based on your symptoms, medical history, and targeted diagnostic tests. We want to help you understand your situation so you can make well-informed decisions about treatment.
Who Is Most at Risk for Calcific Tendinitis?
Individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, especially women, are more likely to develop calcific tendinitis. We see this condition most often in those who perform repetitive shoulder activities or have certain metabolic conditions. If you are active, have diabetes, have a thyroid disorder, or smoke, you may be at increased risk. Our team can work with you to identify risk factors and create prevention strategies.
What Are the Symptoms of Calcific Tendinitis?
Calcific tendinitis typically presents with sudden or gradually increasing shoulder pain, especially during movement. You may notice tenderness, swelling, weakness or difficulty lifting your arm. Some people find that the pain is particularly intense at night.
These symptoms can be shared with other conditions, so if you are unsure of the cause of the problem, it is best to get checked out by a qualified professional.
Will I Need Surgery to Fix My Calcific Tendinitis?
Most cases of calcific tendinitis improve with non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, regenerative medicine, and minimally invasive procedures. Surgery is typically reserved for rare instances when conservative measures do not provide relief. Our goal is to help you recover using the least invasive options possible. If surgery becomes necessary, we may refer you to a trustworthy local specialist.