Calcific tendonitis (also called calcific tendinopathy) is a painful condition that occurs when calcium deposits form within a tendon, most commonly the rotator cuff tendons of the shoulder. These calcific deposits can irritate the surrounding tissues, cause inflammation, and lead to significant shoulder pain, decreased range of motion, and even stiffness or frozen shoulder. While the exact cause of calcific tendonitis is unknown, factors such as tendon degeneration, wear and tear, and poor blood supply to the supraspinatus tendon are thought to play a role.

Symptoms of Calcific Tendonitis

Patients with calcific tendonitis of the shoulder often experience:

  • Sudden or chronic shoulder pain, especially at night

  • Stiffness or limited range of motion

  • Weakness when lifting the arm

  • Pain that worsens with overhead activity

  • In some cases, symptoms mimicking shoulder tendonitis or rotator cuff tears

Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Calcific Tendonitis

Diagnosis is usually made with a physical exam, X-ray, and sometimes ultrasound to visualize the calcium deposits. Once confirmed, there are several treatment options for calcific tendonitis, ranging from conservative treatment to more advanced, minimally invasive procedures.

Conservative Management

  • Rest and activity modification

  • Physical therapy to improve flexibility and strength

  • Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs or steroid injections)

  • Sling use in acute phases for pain relief

  • Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) or shock wave therapy to help break up deposits

Ultrasound-Guided Tenex: A Minimally Invasive Solution

For patients with chronic calcific tendonitis who do not improve with conservative care, Dr. Harary offers the Tenex procedure as an advanced, non-surgical treatment option.

How Tenex Works:

  • Performed under ultrasound guidance for precision

  • Uses a needle-like device with pressurized saline to remove calcific deposits from the tendon

  • Targets the diseased portion of the rotator cuff tendon while leaving healthy tissue intact

  • Minimally invasive—no stitches, no arthroscopic surgery

  • Quick recovery compared to arthroscopic treatment of calcific tendonitis

Benefits of Tenex for Calcific Tendonitis:

  • Relief from persistent shoulder pain

  • Restoration of normal tendon function

  • Reduced risk of developing frozen shoulder or tendon degeneration

  • Performed in-office with local anesthesia

  • Followed by a structured physical therapy plan to regain strength and motion

Other Treatment Options for Calcific Tendonitis of the Shoulder

In addition to Tenex, some patients may benefit from:

  • Ultrasound-guided needle lavage (washing out the calcium deposits)

  • Steroid injections for pain and inflammation control

  • Arthroscopic removal of calcific deposits in severe or recurrent cases

Why Choose Dr. Mark Harary for Calcific Tendonitis Treatment

As a board-certified sports medicine physician, Dr. Harary specializes in the non-surgical treatment of tendon pain and calcific tendonitis. His expertise in ultrasound-guided procedures and use of advanced technologies like Tenex and shockwave therapy give patients access to the most effective, minimally invasive treatments available—without unnecessary surgery.

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