Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a tendinitis calcarea is made by a treating physician. Specialists in the field are orthopedic specialists. The first indication of the cause of the symptoms is the detailed medical history of the affected person.
Especially the exact analysis of the pain is important for the diagnosis. The time of occurrence as well as the pain can lead to the suspected diagnosis of a tendinitis calcarea. Movement tests are also indicative, as they can narrow down the limitation of movement and the exact localization of the symptoms.
In order to differentiate calcareous tendinitis from other diseases of the shoulder, which also show similar symptoms, diagnostic imaging equipment can be used. Of particular importance is the preparation of x-rays that show the shoulder in two planes. In the x-ray image, the calcifications are classically well defined, which allows the diagnosis of a tendinitis calcarea. An X-ray image is superior to an MRI of the shoulder in terms of diagnosis, since the MRI of the shoulder can better depict soft tissue processes than calcifications.
Prognosis
The prognosis of a tendinitis calcarea is generally considered favorable. Thus, most patients can be well helped with conservative treatment. The implementation of shock wave therapy should also be discussed with the treating physician, as this can relieve many people of the symptoms. However, it is typical for the disease that a once diagnosed tendinitis calcarea can lead to a relapse with renewed pain symptoms even after initially effective treatment.
Prophylaxis
There is no general prophylaxis that can prevent the development of the disease. Overloading, such as that which occurs in the context of overhead activities, should be prevented as far as possible. In order to prevent an unfavorable course of the disease, a doctor should be consulted at the beginning of the complaint and a therapy should be started.
