Calcium deposits, an ailment called calcinosis, is the the aggregation and clumping of calcium phosphate crystals in the tissues of the body. Calcium deposits begin as soft toothpaste like globules on bone, skin and other collagen containing tissues. The longer the deposits persists, the larger they grow and harder they become. With growth, they can become inflamed and painful. The only way to reduce calcium deposits is with arthroscopic surgery. However, in some cases, the pain can be reduced without removal.
Step 1
Consume the recommended dose of an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicine and apply ice packs to the area of the calcium deposit. Temporary immobilization of the joint may also provide short-term pain relief.
Step 2
If pain continues and becomes more frequent, go see a physical therapist to get an evaluation and a range-of-motion exercise program. Range-of-motion exercises prevent stiffening of the joints where the calcium deposits reside, reducing pain.
Step 3
If you are still having pain, see a physician. The physician will inject the calcium deposit with cortisone or a similar drug. This injection should relieve the pain within a couple hours. If the problem persists, the physician will recommend arthroscopic surgery.
Step 4
Understand that arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgery where the physician will perform the calcium deposit removal through an arthroscope by way of a small skin incision. In most cases once the deposit is removed, it does not return. However, new calcium deposits may form around the same joint or area. Apply ice packs to the incision site after the surgery to reduce pain and swelling.
Tips and Warnings
- Take the proper steps to treating calcium deposits before they cause severe damage. Generally they are just painful, however a long term calcification in the shoulder joint can cause undue pressure on the rotator cuff tendon which can permanently damage the tendon. If in doubt of severity, see a physical therapist or doctor to get proper diagnosis and treatment.
- When using ice packs, always place some form of cloth between the ice and your skin. Allow the skin to take a break from the ice every two hours and check your skin every 15 to 20 minutes to prevent frostbite. Use anti-inflammatory medicine as directed on the bottle or by a doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Ice packs
- Oral anti-inflammatory medicine (Advil)
