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What is Shoulder Calcification? Why Does It Happen?
Shoulder calcification is a condition that occurs as a result of the wear and deterioration of the cartilage tissue in the shoulder joint over time. This can cause the bones in the shoulder joint to rub against each other and wear out.
Shoulder calcification is often associated with the aging process and occurs over time. However, it can also occur due to trauma to the shoulder joint, untreated shoulder muscle tears from overuse, repetitive movements, or certain medical conditions (for example, inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid calcification ).
In this case, the shoulder joint may lose its flexibility, limitation of movement and pain may occur. Additionally, shoulder calcification can also lead to inflammation and swelling in the tissues around the shoulder joint.
As MSM Clinic, we aim to reduce pain and improve joint function by offering appropriate treatment options to our patients in cases of shoulder calcification . These treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, exercise programs and, when necessary, surgical intervention.
What are the symptoms of Shoulder Calcification?
Shoulder calcification symptoms may vary from person to person and may worsen over time. It is important for people experiencing these symptoms to consult a healthcare professional and create an appropriate treatment plan.
Symptoms of shoulder calcification often include:
- Pain: People with shoulder calcification feel constant or intermittent pain in the shoulder area. This pain can often occur during movements or at rest.
- Limitation of Movement: The range of motion of the shoulder may decrease in people with shoulder calcification . Limitations may be felt, especially in movements such as lifting or rotating the shoulder.
- Crunching or Brittle Sensation: People with shoulder calcification may experience a crunching, crunching, or brittle sensation when they move or rotate their shoulders.
- Night Pain: People with shoulder calcification often experience shoulder pain throughout the night. This pain may increase when lying on the shoulder during sleep or sleeping in certain positions.
- Swelling and Inflammation: Shoulder calcification can cause swelling and inflammation around the shoulder joint. In this case, swelling, redness and tenderness may be felt in the shoulder area.
Shoulder calcification symptoms can vary and everyone’s experience is different. If you have persistent pain, limited movement, or other symptoms in the shoulder, it is important to consult an orthopedic specialist.
How is Shoulder Calcification Treatment?
Shoulder calcification treatment aims to relieve the patient’s symptoms, improve joint function and improve quality of life. The treatment plan is personalized based on the severity of the patient’s symptoms, lifestyle, overall health, and response to treatment. As MSM Clinic, we determine the treatment plan according to the specific needs and condition of the patient.
We use the following methods in the treatment of shoulder calcification :
- Medications: Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. Analgesics can also be used to control pain.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy programs aim to strengthen shoulder muscles, increase joint flexibility and expand range of motion. Physiotherapists support treatment with methods such as personalized exercises, manual therapy techniques and hot and cold therapy.
- Injections: Local injections, such as corticosteroid injections or hyaluronic acid injections, may be used to relieve symptoms of shoulder calcification . However, PRP, collagen or stem cell injections can be performed. These injections can relieve pain by reducing inflammation and increasing joint mobility.
- Surgical Intervention: In severe cases or in patients who do not respond to other treatments, surgical options may be considered. Surgical interventions for shoulder calcification may include procedures such as arthroscopic surgery, cartilage transplantation, or joint prosthesis placement.
- Lifestyle Changes: It is important for patients with shoulder calcification to adjust their activity levels and adopt positions that protect their shoulders. Reducing excessive activity and repetitive movements can help keep the shoulders under less stress.
