The Orthobullets Podcast Shoulder & Elbow | Calcific Tendonitis
Jul 25, 2025
Dive into the intriguing world of calcific tendonitis! Discover the pathophysiology and striking epidemiology behind this common ailment. The discussion navigates various diagnostic methods and explores effective treatment strategies. Real-life case studies bring depth to the conversation, revealing symptoms and classification systems. Whether you're a medical professional or just curious, the insights shared will enhance your understanding of shoulder and elbow disorders!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Basics of Calcific Tendonitis
- Calcific tendonitis involves calcification and degeneration near rotator cuff insertion, causing shoulder pain and decreased motion.
- It is diagnosed by radiographs showing calcium deposits and treated initially nonoperatively with NSAIDs, therapy, and injections.
Epidemiology and Stages
- Calcific tendonitis most affects women aged 30-60, predominantly involving the supraspinatus tendon.
- It progresses through precalcific, calcific (formative, resting, resorptive), and post-calcific stages, with resorptive being the most painful.
Classification Systems Explained
- Two classification systems organize calcific tendonitis: Gartner and Heyer, and Mole classifications.
- Gartner Type 1 is dense and well-circumscribed; Type 3 is cloudy with no clear outline, seen in resorptive phase.