Calcium deposits can occur when calcium that is not absorbed into the bones forms a mass in the soft tissues. This is often referred to as calcinosis, and it can be quite painful. You can treat this condition at home by applying an ice pack to and exercising the afflicted area. Severe cases may need medication or surgery.
Applying ice is one of the most common home treatment methods for calcium deposits. The cold temperature can help relieve inflammation, including pain and swelling. To avoid damaging the skin, the ice or ice pack should be wrapped in a towel before applying it to the skin. You can then apply it to the area for around five or ten minutes at a time.
If the calcium deposits have formed in your joints, not moving or exercising the area can lead to stiffness and more pain. To prevent this and improve your range of motion, the affected area should be exercised on a regular basis. Doing this on a regular basis can lead to less inflammation, thereby less pain. Many doctors recommend performing these exercises on a daily basis, at least.
An over-the-counter pain medication can also be helpful. Pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen are also anti-inflammatories. These can also help relieve swelling.
Some calcium deposits can either become very painful or very large. In these cases, it is advisable that you seek medical attention. There are a few things a doctor can do to eliminate a deposit. He may use medications, for instance, or possibly surgery.
Certain oral medications may help reverse calcinosis. Some doctors may prescribe anticoagulants, for example. These medication help prevent the blood from coagulating, or clotting, and can decrease the size of some calcium deposits. This type of treatment usually only works with small deposits, though.
Large deposits may require surgery. Laser surgery, although more expensive than traditional surgery, can help dissolve small and large calcium deposits. These can also be removed using traditional surgery methods. Very large deposits, however, may need to be removed a little at a time, since the trauma of the surgery can cause calcification.
Some vitamins and minerals can help increase the absorption of calcium, and help prevent calcium deposits. Vitamin C and vitamin D, along with lysine and magnesium are essential for the absorption of calcium. Except for vitamin D, which is most easily produced from exposure to sunlight, these can often be found in over-the-counter supplements.