Focused Shockwave Therapy
for Shoulder Calcification

​Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Calcific Shoulder Tendinopathy

Shoulder pain caused by calcium deposits can make sleeping, lifting your arm and everyday movements uncomfortable.

At Shockwave Therapy Centre, we offer focused shockwave therapy for selected patients with calcific tendinopathy of the shoulder.

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What Is Shoulder Calcification?

Calcific shoulder tendinopathy occurs when calcium deposits develop within one or more rotator cuff tendons.

These deposits may be associated with inflammation, pain and restricted shoulder movement.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain when lifting or reaching overhead

• Night pain or difficulty sleeping on the affected side

• Reduced shoulder movement

• Pain during dressing or household activities

• Sudden episodes of severe shoulder discomfort

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Not all calcium deposits cause symptoms, so assessment is important.

How Can Focused Shockwave Therapy Help?

Focused extracorporeal shockwave therapy delivers acoustic energy towards the affected tendon and calcium deposit.

Clinical studies have investigated its ability to reduce pain, improve shoulder function and promote changes in calcific deposits.

Focused shockwave therapy is one of the non-surgical options that may be considered for suitable patients with calcific rotator cuff tendinopathy.

Results depend on factors including the size and characteristics of the deposit, symptom severity and treatment protocol.

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Why Is Focused Technology Relevant?

Focused shockwave technology can direct acoustic energy towards a selected region within the shoulder.

This is particularly relevant when treating a defined calcium deposit.

However, the best treatment approach depends on clinical findings and imaging, and may also include rehabilitation, medication or specialist procedures.

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What Happens During Treatment?

Your clinician reviews your symptoms and relevant ultrasound or X-ray findings.

If focused shockwave therapy is suitable, treatment parameters are selected and acoustic pulses are applied to the target region.

Some discomfort during or after treatment is possible.

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A rehabilitation program may also be recommended to restore movement and shoulder function.

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Frequently Asked Questions

• Can focused shockwave therapy break down calcium deposits?

Focused shockwave therapy may promote fragmentation or resorption of calcific deposits in selected patients, although results are not guaranteed.

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• Is shockwave therapy suitable for all shoulder pain?

No. Shoulder pain can arise from many different conditions, and treatment should be based on an accurate diagnosis.

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• Will I need surgery for shoulder calcification?

Many patients can be managed without surgery. Treatment options depend on symptoms, imaging findings and response to conservative care.

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Book a Shoulder Assessment

If you have been diagnosed with calcific shoulder tendinopathy, our team can assess whether focused shockwave therapy may be appropriate.

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Shockwave Therapy Centre – Bli Bli, Sunshine Coast

Phone: (07) 5441 6355