calcific tendonitis - flare up?

[Brienneoftarthismyhero]

I was diagnosed with calcific tendonitis when I had pain in my shoulder in 2023. It got some bad I struggled to get dressed. I had an ultrasound and was told to rest which helped. Zero flare ups since and no pain. I swim 4 times a week and am fit and healthy. For the last few days I’ve been experiencing very mild pain in the shoulder - I really hope it’s not flaring up again. Last time I had to rest it for 4 weeks. Pain meds and hot/cold application. I was off work too as I struggled typing and using mouse (it’s my right shoulder)

anyone here have this? Does it flare up? Mine measured 4.5mm according to ultrasound results.

thanks

I really feel for you. I had this and the pain is unbelievable! Yes, you can get flare ups. Mine got so bad I ended up with surgery as pain medication just wasn't touching it. Best thing I did as I have been symptom free since then.

@Londonnight thank you. I just have this bad feeling this is the beginning stages of a flare up. I’ve been reading about it online and freaking myself out. As it went away I haven’t really thought about it since July 2023. How long did you suffer with pain before surgery? Was it keyhole?

@Brienneoftarthismyhero I had had it for probably two years, but hadn't realised as I put it down to severe aching arm . It slowly got worse, in that I couldn't lift my arm above my head, and struggled brushing my hair. At that point I could control it with painkillers. When I saw my GP I was sent for an x ray which showed the calcific tendonitis in my shoulder.
I suffered for around 8 months in real pain with lots of flare ups. I think when they couldn't get the pain under control when I was in A&E for 8 hours was the deciding factor for surgery. The pain was so bad even the very slightest movement was extremely painful. I still had to wait another 6 months or so for surgery.

It was keyhole. I had to have 6 weeks off work and started physio two weeks after the surgery. I couldn't drive after surgery for 6 weeks either.

Thank you for sharing your experience @Londonnight and I’m sorry it was so bad for you. Glad to hear surgery helped you. I can only hope it doesn’t get like that for me, but good to know there are options. I’ve been taking ibuprofen for last two days and pain is very mild and not stopping me doing my usual activities. I will sit in the sauna this evening and do some stretches.