What causes calcium deposits in the shoulder?

The cause of calcium deposits in the shoulder is not known, according to Southern California Orthopedic Institute. It occurs more often in women, specifically those 35 to 65 years old, than in men. Only when the calcium deposits cause severe pain do treatments become necessary.

Inflamed calcium deposits or leaking calcium salts into the bursal tissues can cause severe pain and may be treated with ice packs, oral anti-inflammatory drugs or cortisone injections, and rest, notes Southern California Orthopedic Institute. In cases where the calcium deposits continue to enlarge and cause two to three recurrent painful episodes, some doctors recommend their removal through arthroscopic surgery.