Shoulder Calcification

Q:  I am 56 years old, and my doctor has informed me I have calcification in my shoulder. I have pain that goes from there all the way to my elbow. What options do I have besides taking Advil? Is calcification another word for arthritis?

A:  The shoulder is a very special joint that really is made up of 3 bones, 4 joints, and 15 muscles that enable it to move in many directions. Many tendons are attached to the shoulder and together are called the "rotator cuff." Injuries and tears in the cuff are especially common in athletes, but also develop as a result of normal "wear and tear" in people over the age of 40, most of whom do not have serious problems or pain because of it.

As the fibers in the tendon degenerate, calcium is deposited in the tissue. These deposits may cause bulges in the tendon, leading to irritation and pain with movement. Calcification is not synonymous with arthritis. You can have calcification without arthritis and vice versa. You can also have calcification without pain.

Advil and many of the other "arthritis" medicines will help your pain. Sometimes injection of steroid directly into the shoulder area brings relief. If you don't like pills, you can apply a cream like Zostrix which stings and burns the skin, but relieves the deeper pain. Finally, don't forget physical therapy and exercises that can strengthen your shoulder.

"Dear Doctor" is a compilation of patient questions answered by doctors from the Medical College of Wisconsin.