TITLE:
Localization Patterns of Rotator Cuff Calcific Tendinitis & Their Correlation with Rotator Cuff Injuries: A 12-Month Clinical Study
AUTHORS:
Faisal Mohd Noor, Ezainy Ma, Onur Tunali, Metehan Akdag, Atacan Atalar, Kerem Bilsel
KEYWORDS:
Tendon Calcification, Rotator Cuff Tear, Shoulder Pathology
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Biosciences and Medicines,
Vol.14 No.5,
May
6,
2026
ABSTRACT: Background: Rotator cuff calcific tendinitis (RCTT) is a common cause of shoulder pain, particularly in middle-aged adults, and is often associated with rotator cuff tears. Calcific deposits within the tendons may lead to degeneration, inflammation, and mechanical irritation, increasing the risk of both partial- and full-thickness tears. However, the relationship between the anatomical localization of calcific deposits and rotator cuff injuries remains incompletely understood. Objective: To investigate the localization patterns of calcific deposits and their correlation with rotator cuff tears, and to evaluate the influence of diabetes mellitus on tear prevalence. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary referral center specializing in shoulder reconstruction. Clinical and imaging data from 97 patients with RCTT were analyzed. Calcification location, tear type, calcification size, and diabetes status were evaluated using MRI findings. Descriptive statistics and correlation analyses were performed. Results: The supraspinatus (SSP) and infraspinatus (ISP) tendons were the most common sites of calcification and associated tears. Partial-thickness tears were most frequent in SSP (31.1%) and ISP (54.5%), while full-thickness tears occurred mainly in SSP and combined SSP/ISP locations (40% each). Partial tears were slightly more common in diabetic patients, while calcification size showed no significant difference between diabetic and non-diabetic groups (p = 0.496). Conclusion: Localization patterns of calcific deposits are correlated with rotator cuff injury risk and may assist clinicians in improving diagnosis and treatment strategies for RCTT.