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Abstract
Rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy
published in September - October 2018 - in Il Fisioterapista - issue n.5
Alice Tiberi

Rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy is one of the most frequent causes of shoulder pain and is characterized by the presence of calcific deposits in the rotator cuff. Although the exact etiology remains unclear, several studies have sought to determine the factors that might contribute to its development. It seems to be related to cell-mediated activation, in which the metaplastic transformation of tenocytes into chondrocytes induces calcification inside the tendon of the rotator cuff. Symptoms may vary from low-grade, subacute pain that worsens during the night to intense, highly disabling pain that is resistant to treatment. It can be easily diagnosed with imaging studies, after a detailed history and physical examination.