M75.31 Calcific tendinitis of right shoulder

Name of the Condition

• Calcific tendinitis of the right shoulder
• Also known as calcific tendinopathy or calcific shoulder bursitis

Summary

Calcific tendinitis of the right shoulder is a condition characterized by the accumulation of calcium deposits in the tendons of the shoulder, particularly the rotator cuff. This can lead to pain, inflammation, and restricted shoulder movement.

Causes

The exact cause of calcific tendinitis is not well understood. However, it is thought to occur due to a combination of factors, including degeneration of tendon tissues, decreased blood supply to the tendons, and metabolic imbalances that lead to calcification.

Risk Factors

• Age: Most common in individuals aged 30-60 years.
• Gender: More prevalent in women than men.
• Repetitive shoulder activities and overhead motions.
• Underlying metabolic conditions such as diabetes.

Symptoms

• Severe shoulder pain, typically worsening at night.
• Limited range of motion in the shoulder.
• Tenderness and swelling around the affected joint.
• A catching or clicking sensation during shoulder movement.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination assessing pain and range of motion.
• Imaging tests such as X-rays and ultrasound to confirm the presence of calcification.
• MRI may be used to evaluate the extent of tendon involvement.

Treatment Options

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Physical therapy: Enhances range of motion and strengthens shoulder muscles.
• Corticosteroid injections: Reduce inflammation and pain in the short term.
• Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT): Non-invasive treatment to break down calcifications.
• Surgery: Arthroscopic removal of calcium deposits in severe cases or if conservative treatments fail.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With appropriate treatment, many patients experience significant relief from symptoms. Regular follow-up with healthcare providers is essential to monitor progress and modify treatment plans, ensuring optimal recovery and preventing recurrence.

Complications

If untreated, calcific tendinitis may lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and in some cases, rotator cuff tears or shoulder impingement syndrome.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Incorporate shoulder-strengthening exercises into fitness routines.
• Avoid repetitive overhead activities that strain the shoulder.
• Maintain a healthy weight and control any metabolic disorders.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Sudden, severe shoulder pain that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Imminent signs of infection such as redness, warmth, and fever.
• Significant loss of shoulder function or mobility.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) - Website
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) - Website

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the specific site of calcific tendinitis is documented for accurate coding.
• Verify patient records for laterality (in this case, specifically noting the right shoulder).
• Avoid common errors such as coding a generic shoulder tendinitis code instead of the specific M75.31 code for calcific tendinitis.