Painful condition affecting the rotator cuff of the shoulder, due to a build up of calcium deposits within the tendons

Aetiology

• Typically affects patients 30-60 years
• Women more commonly affected than men
• Right shoulder more frequently affected than left
• The supraspinatus tendon is most often involved

Pathophysiology

• Hydroxyapatite crystal deposition in the supraspinatus tendon leads to inflammation
• Release of collagenases, serine proteinases and IL-1
• Acute and rapid deterioration

Clinical features

Symptoms

• Acute onset of severe shoulder pain

Signs

• Decreased active range of motion

Investigations

• X-ray: calcification can be seen just proximal to the greater tuberosity

  

Management

Non-surgical

• NSAIDs, subacromial steroid and local anaesthetic injections for pain relief