Ms. M.S.L, a 30 year old single female presented to our clinic complaining of sudden onset of pain and swelling in the right shoulder and arm for about 5 days. She does not recall any recent trauma or incident that would have caused her shoulder pain, nor did she have any pre-existing right shoulder conditions. Ms M.S.L found it very difficult to elevate her right arm overhead due to severe pain, limiting her abilities to carry out tasks which required such movements. She also experienced very severe pain and throbbing at nights. Ms. M.S.L. Was treated with Celebrex, Norflex, Tramacet and Romesec (all tablets), which partially reduced her pain, however she still experienced enough pain to limit the functioning of her right shoulder. On examination by one of our experienced orthopaedic surgeons, Ms. M.S.L showed markedly limited range of movement of her right shoulder. She was then sent for an X-ray of the affected joint, which showed a large calcific deposit within the supra-spinatus tendon. An ultrasound was also performed at that same visit which confirmed the presence of the calcific deposit , with no rotator cuff tears. A diagnosis of calcific tendinitis of the right shoulder was made. Ms M.S.L was advised on the options of treatment, and the decision was then made to inject the affected joint with steroid, and subsequent "needling" of the calcific deposit under ultrasound guidance. She was also referred to physiotherapy to assist with rehabilitation of the right shoulder.
About one month later, during her follow-up visit, Ms. M.S.L showed marked improvements in terms of pain, however still could not lift heavy objects. Her range of movement compared to her first visit was markedly improved as well. Her repeat X-rays showed nearly complete resolution of the calcification at the supra-spinatus tendon insertion. She was encouraged to continue her physiotherapy and discharged from the clinic.
For more information on calcific tendinitis:-http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1267908-trea...
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