Tendon calcification: treatment with several options
- Painkillers: Painkillers from the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or coxibs are often used. Examples of active ingredients are ibuprofen, diclofenac, mefanamic acid or etoricoxib. They not only relieve pain, but also have an anti-inflammatory effect. Such painkillers are available as tablets or as ointments and creams to be applied to the skin.
- Glucocorticoids (“cortisone”): These drugs effectively reduce inflammation. We usually inject them into the painful area of the body.
- Platelet rich plasma (PRP, autologous blood therapy): First, a blood tube is taken from you and centrifuged. Enriched blood platelets are then injected into the painful area of the body.
- Cold (more for acute pain) or heat (mostly for chronic pain): These physical therapies can relieve pain and slow down inflammation.
- Physiotherapy: Physiotherapists use active (you have to participate) or passive techniques (the therapist performs the movement) to mobilize and stabilize the limb. In addition, incorrect movement patterns can be identified and corrected during physiotherapy. You will learn gentle and pain-free ways of behaving and moving. Stretching and strength exercises are also important. You can then do this yourself at home.
- Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT): We use high-energy, mechanical pressure waves generated by a shock wave device outside the body (extracorporeal). With the help of a water cushion, we transfer the high-energy, focused shock waves to the body. They are directed selectively at the calcium deposits on the tendon, breaking them down into tiny particles. The body then removes the calcium. Incidentally, this technique is also used for kidney stone fragmentation. The special feature of our device is that very high energies and peak pressures of up to 1000 bar can be delivered, and the waves are bundled in such a way that they are directed precisely at the calcification. This is done by means of an X-ray. The target area can be focused on with millimeter precision under X-ray vision. The shock waves promote blood circulation, improve the metabolism and ensure that the tissue regenerates and heals. The process is usually completed after around two to three months. As a rule, three sessions are carried out at intervals of at least one week; the shock wave device delivers 2000 pulses per session within 10 minutes. You can feel the shock wave impulses. The device can be set so that you feel almost nothing, with higher energy the pulses become stronger and stronger. You decide up to which energy level the pulses should be emitted. ESWT can be performed on an outpatient basis and without anesthesia. However, we recommend taking a painkiller beforehand. Talk to your doctor and your health insurance company beforehand. ESWT is not a mandatory benefit covered by compulsory basic insurance. However, depending on your supplementary insurance, the costs may be covered.
- Surgery: This is only an option for larger calcium deposits and pronounced symptoms if all other treatments have not been sufficiently successful.
