Calcific bursitis

Calcific bursitis
Specialty	Rheumatology

Calcific bursitis refers to calcium deposits within the bursae. This most occurs in the shoulder area. The most common bursa for calcific bursitis to occur is the subacromial bursa. A bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac that reduces friction, and facilitates movements between its adjacent tissues (i.e., between tendon and bone, two muscles or skin and bone). Inflammation of the bursae is called bursitis.

Signs and symptoms

• Pain during rest
• Tenderness on palpation
• Stiffness (reducing joint range of motion)
• Swelling

Causes

Calcific bursitis may be related to:

• Calcific tendinitis. Sometimes calcium deposits of the involved tendons penetrate into the bursae.
• Chronic bursitis. Lack of bursitis treatment or repetitive bursitis may lead to calcific bursitis.

Diagnosis

Diagnostic methods are the following

• X-ray
• MRI scan

Treatment

Management methods are the following

• Ice (in the acute stage)
• Rest (immobilization of the affected limb in the acute phase)
• Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Injections of steroid
• Physical therapy
• Surgical treatment

See also

• Bursitis
• Calcific tendinitis

References

• Darlene Hertling and Randolph M.Kessler. Management of Common Musculoskeletal Disorders. Third Edition. ISBN 0-397-55150-9
• Calcific bursitis at MedicineNet