The main triggering and aggravating posture for calcific tendinitis is the repetitive elevation of the arm within a range of 60 to 120 degrees. At this angle, the supraspinatus tendon is compressed beneath the acromion, reducing blood flow. Using a hairdryer, reaching for items on a shelf, freestyle swimming, badminton, and painting are typical risky movements. If such posture persists even after recovery, the recurrence rate is high; therefore, fundamental strengthening of shoulder stabilizing muscles and posture correction are necessary.

Perspective of a Korean Medicine Clinic

In Korean medicine, when the circulation of Qi and blood in the meridians running through the arms and shoulders becomes stagnant due to repetitive pressure, phlegm accumulates in the surrounding area. In particular, the shoulder area, which is relatively susceptible to the invasion of cold wind and dampness, experiences further exacerbation of phlegm accumulation when cold stimulation overlaps with overwork. At Dongjedang, to prevent recurrence after treatment, we manage patients by enhancing the tendons' self-healing ability through a combination of posture correction guidance considering the meridian flow around the shoulder and the administration of constitution-tailored herbal medicine that strengthens liver and kidney functions.