Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder

Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder is a process involving calcium deposition commonly in the rotator cuff tendons. It is a cell-mediated process that is often chronic in nature, but it is usually self-limiting with regard to its acute pain states. Conservative management is still the treatment of choice and is successful in up to 90% of patients. When conservative measures fail, a needling technique or surgical removal may be indicated; the trend is toward arthroscopic management.