Atypical calcific tendinitis involving teres minor which affects overhead movement: A case report

Calcific tendinitis is a common cause of shoulder pain, with the supraspinatus tendon being most frequently affected. In contrast, involvement of the teres minor tendon is exceptionally rare. We report an unusual case of a 55-year-old woman experiencing persistent left shoulder pain for six months, exacerbated by overhead activities. Clinical examination revealed point tenderness over the posterolateral shoulder and restricted abduction and external rotation. Imaging identified a 1.8 cm calcification within the teres minor tendon. Given the unresponsiveness to nonoperative treatments, arthroscopic removal of the calcifications and teres minor tendon repair were performed, resulting in pain-free motion and a return to overhead activities. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed tendon integrity and the absence of calcification recurrence. This case highlights the importance of considering atypical presentations of calcific tendinitis, particularly in the context of isolated posterior shoulder pain. Recognition of this rare tendon involvement is essential to avoid misdiagnosis and to guide appropriate surgical planning when conservative measures fail. Furthermore, this report demonstrates that arthroscopic intervention including targeted debridement and teres minor tendon repair can yield excellent clinical outcomes even with unusual presentation. Raising awareness of such rare cases may support earlier diagnosis and tailored treatment, ultimately improving patient outcomes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level V, Case report.