Calcific Tendinitis of the Shoulder – East Auckland Physiotherapy Guide

What is Calcific Tendinitis?

Calcific tendinitis is a condition where calcium deposits form within the rotator cuff tendons, most commonly the supraspinatus tendon. These deposits can cause significant shoulder pain and restrict movement.

This condition often affects:

• Adults aged 30–60

• People with repetitive shoulder use

• Individuals with underlying shoulder dysfunction

At our East Auckland physiotherapy clinic, calcific tendinitis is a common cause of moderate to severe shoulder pain, sometimes presenting very suddenly.

Common Symptoms of Calcific Tendinitis

You may experience:

• Severe pain at the top or front of the shoulder

• Pain when lifting the arm, especially overhead

• Difficulty sleeping (especially lying on that side)

• Sudden flare-ups of intense pain

• Reduced shoulder movement and stiffness

👉 In some cases, pain can be very sharp and acute, especially during the “resorptive phase” when the body is breaking down the calcium.

What Causes Calcific Tendinitis?

The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but common contributing factors include:

• Poor shoulder mechanics

• Rotator cuff overload

• Reduced blood supply to the tendon

• Repetitive overhead activity

• Degenerative tendon changes

Calcific tendinitis typically progresses through stages:

1. Formative phase – calcium builds up

2. Resorptive phase – body breaks it down (most painful stage)

3. Healing phase – tendon recovers

How Physiotherapy Can Help

At our East Auckland physiotherapy clinic, treatment focuses on pain relief, restoring movement, and long-term shoulder function.

1. Pain Management (Acute Phase)

When pain is severe, treatment may include:

• Gentle hands-on therapy

• Activity modification

• Taping to offload the tendon

• Advice on sleeping positions

👉 The goal is to settle pain without aggravating the tendon further.

2. Restore Shoulder Movement

Pain often leads to stiffness and guarding.

We help to:

• Improve shoulder range of motion

• Reduce protective muscle tightness

• Restore normal movement patterns

3. Strengthening & Rehabilitation

Once pain settles, rehab becomes essential:

• Rotator cuff strengthening

• Scapular (shoulder blade) control

• Gradual return to overhead activities

👉 This stage is key to preventing recurrence.

4. Shockwave Therapy for Calcific Tendinitis

For persistent or painful cases, shockwave therapy is highly effective.

Benefits include:

• Breaking down calcium deposits

• Stimulating healing in the tendon

• Reducing chronic pain

Shockwave therapy is commonly used in East Auckland physiotherapy clinics for calcific tendinitis with good results.

What Should You Avoid?

During flare-ups, avoid:

• Overhead lifting

• Heavy shoulder exercises

• Repetitive aggravating movements

• Pushing through sharp pain

👉 Rest alone is not enough — guided rehab is essential.

When Should You Seek Physiotherapy?

You should see a physiotherapist if:

• Shoulder pain is severe or sudden

• You cannot lift your arm properly

• Pain affects sleep

• Symptoms persist beyond 1–2 weeks

Early treatment can significantly reduce recovery time and prevent chronic issues.

How Long Does It Take to Recover?

Recovery varies depending on the stage:

• Acute (resorptive phase): 2–6 weeks

• Subacute: 6–10 weeks

• Full recovery: up to 3 months or longer

With proper physiotherapy, most people recover well without needing surgery.

Calcific Tendinitis Treatment in East Auckland

At our East Auckland physiotherapy clinic, we provide:

• Accurate diagnosis and assessment

• Hands-on physiotherapy treatment

• Shockwave therapy for calcific deposits

• Structured rehabilitation programs

We focus on both short-term pain relief and long-term shoulder health.

Book an Appointment

If you are experiencing shoulder pain or suspect calcific tendinitis, early treatment is key.

👉 Book your physiotherapy appointment today and let us help you return to pain-free movement.