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 SEPTEMBER 30, 2007 Calcium Deposits Respond to Injections Calcium deposits in the shoulder can trigger inflammation due to impingement of the rotator cuff muscles. Mostly a disease of middle-age athletes, particularly those who participate in a lot of overhead sports (tennis, volleyball, swimming), this often painful condition can be treated with simple injections, according to a recent study conducted by researchers from the Hospital de Basurto in Bilbao, Spain. Guided by ultrasound, the researchers injected saline or lidocaine into 67 shoulders with calcium deposits. One year after treatment, 91% of the shoulders had substantially or completely improved, 64% had perfect motion, and x-rays showed that calcium deposits had resolved completely or nearly completely in 89%, they report in the September issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology. These calcium deposits usually resolve on their own, but you may need anti-inflammatory medications and can apply ice to reduce the pain and inflammation. Range-of-motion exercises can help you prevent a frozen shoulder. Other treatments may include up to three cortisone injections to relieve inflammation for quick relief. Sometimes these deposits can be broken up with a hypodermic needle and sucked out with a syringe. Most people don't need surgery, except for those with very large calcium deposits that interfere with shoulder movement. |
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