Calcific Tendinitis of the Shoulder

Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder is a self-limiting calcification of the rotator cuff (Figure 1). Radiologically evident calcification has been reported in 7.5 to 20 percent of adults with no symptoms1,2 and in 6.8 percent of those with shoulder pain.2 The disorder is most common among people between 30 and 60 years of age. Women are slightly more likely to be affected than men, and workers in sedentary jobs appear to be at higher risk than those in manual work. Bilateral involvement is not uncommon.The reason for the deposition of calcium hydroxyapatite crystals in the tendon is unclear. . . .