Calcific Tendinopathy Barbotage in Brunswick, ME
Advanced, In-Office Treatment for Shoulder Pain Caused by Calcium Buildup
Expert Care for Calcific Tendinopathy
At Coastal Ortho in Brunswick, Maine, we offer non-surgical solutions for painful tendon conditions, including calcific tendinopathy. This condition, often affecting the rotator cuff, is caused by abnormal calcium buildup within the tendon.If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain, especially with movement or while sleeping, barbotage may offer fast, lasting relief.
What Is Calcific Tendinopathy?
- Calcific tendinopathy occurs when calcium deposits develop within a tendon, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. It most commonly affects the shoulder’s rotator cuff.
- Symptoms May Include:
- • Shoulder pain during activity or at rest
- • Pain that worsens at night
- • Limited range of motion
- • Weakness or difficulty lifting the arm
What Is Barbotage?
Barbotage is a minimally invasive, ultrasound-guided procedure used to break up and remove calcium deposits in the tendon. It is a highly effective treatment for patients with calcific tendinopathy who want to avoid surgery.
Why Choose Barbotage at Our Clinic?
- • Performed by Dr. Kulju, a sports medicine specialist with extensive experience in image-guided orthopedic procedures
- • Ultrasound-guided precision ensures accuracy and safety
- • Completed in-office under local anesthesia—no hospital visit or sedation needed
- • Proven success in reducing pain and improving function
- • Minimal downtime and low risk of complications
What to Expect During the Procedure
- Barbotage is a quick and straightforward outpatient procedure. Here's what happens:
- 1. Ultrasound imaging is used to locate the calcium deposit.
- 2. The area is numbed with a local anesthetic.
- 3. A thin needle is inserted into the calcium deposit using ultrasound guidance.
- 4. Lavage (flushing) is performed with saline or lidocaine to break down and remove calcium.
- 5. A corticosteroid injection may be placed in the nearby bursa to reduce inflammation.
- Most procedures take less than 30 minutes and patients return home the same day.
Recovery and Aftercare
- After the procedure, it’s normal to experience mild soreness for a few days. This discomfort is usually due to the body’s healing process or the procedure itself.
- Post-Procedure Instructions:
- • Use Tylenol and ice packs as needed for pain relief
- • Avoid NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) for several days to support natural healing
- • Perform gentle range of motion exercises as tolerated
- • Wear a sling for 2–3 days if advised
- • Avoid lifting anything over 5 lbs for 2 weeks
- • Return for a follow-up appointment in about 4 weeks
Is Barbotage Safe?
Yes. Barbotage is a well-tolerated and low-risk procedure when performed by an experienced provider like Dr. Kulju. Risks such as infection or bleeding are rare.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If shoulder pain is holding you back, don’t wait. Learn if barbotage for calcific tendinopathy is the right solution for you.
Conveniently located in Cook's Corner Brunswick, ME, and serving patients throughout Midcoast Maine.
Request an appointment online today to get started.