Shoulder Calcification

Shoulder arthritis, medically known as shoulder osteoarthritis, is a condition that occurs as a result of wear and damage to the cartilage tissue in the shoulder joint. This condition can cause pain, stiffness and limitation of movement in the shoulder joint. Osteoarthritis of the shoulder usually occurs as part of the aging process, but factors such as past trauma, repetitive movements, heavy lifting or joint diseases can also contribute to the condition.

Contents:

• What is Shoulder Calcification?
• What are the Symptoms of Shoulder Calcification?
• How is Shoulder Calcification Diagnosed?
• What are the Treatment Methods for Shoulder Calcification?
• Conclusion:

What is Shoulder Calcification?

Shoulder osteoarthritis is a chronic joint disease that occurs as a result of the wear and deterioration of the cartilage tissue in the shoulder joint over time. This condition, medically known as shoulder osteoarthritis, causes the cartilage tissue covering the joint surfaces to wear away, causing the bones to rub against each other and causing pain, stiffness and limitation of movement in the joint. Osteoarthritis of the shoulder usually occurs as part of the aging process, but factors such as past trauma, repetitive movements, heavy lifting or joint diseases can also contribute to this condition.

What are the Symptoms of Shoulder Calcification?

It is a condition that usually occurs as a result of aging or overloading the shoulder joint. Symptoms usually include pain and stiffness in the shoulder. This pain can be more pronounced, especially in the morning and after a long period of inactivity. When you try to move the shoulder, crunching or rubbing sounds called crepitation can be heard in the joint. Decreased range of motion, inability to fully use the shoulder and weakness are among the other common symptoms. In advanced stages, swelling and deformities may occur in the shoulder joint. Over time, pain can make daily activities difficult and reduce the quality of life. These symptoms are diagnosed by physical examination and radiographic imaging methods. Treatment usually includes medication, physical therapy and exercise programs to relieve pain and improve joint mobility. Surgical intervention may be required in advanced cases. Early diagnosis and treatment are important in slowing the progression of the disease and improving quality of life.

How is Shoulder Calcification Diagnosed?

1.Assessment of Medical History and Symptoms

The doctor assesses the patient’s medical history and symptoms in detail. The following questions may be asked:

• What is the location, intensity and duration of pain?
• With which movements does the pain increase or decrease?
• Has there been trauma or injury to the shoulder area in the past?
• Do other joints have similar problems?
• Is there a family history of osteoarthritis or other joint diseases?

2.Physical Examination

During the physical examination, the doctor evaluates the shoulder joint and the surrounding structures:

• Visual Review: The appearance of the shoulder is checked for swelling or deformity.
• Palpation:The shoulder joint and surrounding tissues are palpated to check for tenderness and temperature increase.
• Movement Tests: Range of motion of the shoulder, movements that cause pain and crunching sounds in the joint are evaluated.
• Muscle Strength Tests: The strength of the shoulder muscles is tested to check for muscle weakness.

3.Imaging Tests

Imaging tests are used to assess structural changes and cartilage damage in the shoulder joint:

• X-ray Bone structures, cartilage loss, narrowing of the joint space, osteophytes (bone spurs) and other degenerative changes in the shoulder joint are visualized by X-ray.
• Manyetik Rezonans Görüntüleme (MRI): It provides detailed images of cartilage, tendons, ligaments and soft tissues. In addition to shoulder arthritis, it can also reveal other problems such as rotator cuff tears.
• Computed Tomography (CT): It provides more detailed images of bone structures and shows detailed changes in joint surfaces.

4.Laboratory Tests

Laboratory tests are not usually routinely used to diagnose shoulder osteoarthritis, but may be ordered to assess signs of inflammation or infection:

• Blood TestsIt is used to rule out rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory joint diseases.
• Joint Fluid Analysis: It is rarely used, but joint fluid can be taken and analyzed to rule out infection or crystalline arthritis (e.g. gout).

5. Other Assessments

The doctor can also evaluate other problems that may be associated with shoulder arthritis. This provides more information about the general condition of the shoulder joint and the overall health of the patient.

What are the Treatment Methods for Shoulder Calcification?

Treatment methods for shoulder arthritis vary depending on the stage and severity of the disease. In the first stage, medication is used to relieve pain and improve joint mobility. Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs are used to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy and special exercise programs are important to strengthen the muscles around the joint and increase range of motion. These treatments help to maintain flexibility and function of the shoulder.

In more advanced cases, pain and inflammation can be reduced with corticosteroid injections. If these treatments are not sufficient, surgical interventions may be considered. Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure to remove or repair damaged tissue within the joint. Shoulder replacement surgery involves completely replacing the joint in severe cases of arthritis. This surgery greatly reduces pain and improves the function of the shoulder. During the treatment process, following the doctor’s recommendations and regular check-ups have a positive effect on the course of the disease and improve quality of life.

Conclusion:

Shoulder arthritis is a painful and movement-limiting condition that results from the wear and deterioration of the cartilage tissue in the joint. This disease can significantly affect quality of life and can be progressive if left untreated. Symptoms usually include pain, stiffness, restricted movement, crunching or rubbing noises, muscle weakness and, rarely, swelling and increased temperature. Diagnosis is based on the patient’s medical history, physical examination, imaging tests and, if necessary, laboratory tests. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the symptoms and the overall health of the patient. Medication, physical therapy, lifestyle changes and surgical interventions are the most common treatment methods. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), painkillers and corticosteroid injections are commonly used in drug treatment, while regular exercise, heat and cold applications and ergonomic adjustments are among lifestyle changes. Surgical treatment includes options such as arthroscopic surgery and shoulder replacement in advanced cases.

Starting treatment early can slow the progression of shoulder arthritis and be effective in managing symptoms. Consulting with an orthopaedic specialist to establish the correct diagnosis and treatment plan is critical in improving the patient’s quality of life. If you often experience symptoms of shoulder osteoarthritis, seeking medical advice to determine the appropriate treatment methods and adapting your lifestyle to manage the condition will help you achieve the best results.