Calcium Deposits on Bones

We are all aware of the importance of calcium for our bodies. The maximum amount of calcium consumed by the body goes into bone formation and repair. The remainder goes into performing other bodily functions that require calcium such as cell division, proper blood circulation, and digestion. However, as the saying goes, too much of anything is not good, so is the case with calcium. When there is an excess of calcium in the body, it begins to deposit at different places, such as the walls of the arteries, as well as on the bones and in joints. If not treated immediately, calcium deposits on bones can become painful over time, and lead to difficulty in performing different routines.

Causes

As mentioned earlier, sometimes an excess of calcium in the body can lead to the deposition of this mineral on the bones. Usually, if a bone is damaged, or under stress, it is likely to develop a calcium deposit. In order to repair the bone, extra calcium is sent to it via the blood stream. The calcium is then deposited on the damaged bone. In an event where the body's signals are not functioning in the right manner, it is likely that an excess of this mineral can get deposited in that area. If this trend is not spotted, it can result in a slow and steady build up of a soft layer of calcium on the affected bone. Initially, this layer is as soft as cream. However, over time, it begins to harden and becomes slightly chalk-like. In such a case, it begins to affect the nerves and starts causing severe pain and swelling in the affected area. There are otherwise no obvious symptoms of calcium deposits on bones.

The most common area in the body where calcium deposits are likely is on the shoulder. Usually, women within the age group 35-65 are likely to suffer from this problem. Women are also prone to osteoporosis at this age. In an alternate situation, calcium deposits can also occur due to a deficiency of calcium in the body. This causes the body to remove calcium from the bones, and use it for other processes that are essential for the body's functioning. This can also mean that in a case where the body is not receiving proper signals, calcium can be absorbed from the bones and deposited in other areas, making the bones weak and prone to injury.

Another cause for this condition is a sedentary and inactive lifestyle. An active person has a proper circulatory system, which means all the essential nutrients, including calcium are being effectively circulated, rather than collecting on the bones and other areas. If you are inactive, you are more likely to develop calcium deposits on your bones.

This condition is possible in men too, but women are at a higher risk of suffering from this problem. Even kids may develop this condition.

Detection and Treatment

The fact that you may have calcium deposits on your bones can be confirmed only after running you through a series of X-rays, that will display the calcium deposition on the bones in the form of lumps and layers. Once this has been established, the intensity or the hardness of the calcium deposit is checked, using a specialized needle.

Depending on the intensity of your condition, you will be given certain oral medications, and in some cases, may be asked to restrict your intake of calcium till this condition is rectified. In the absence of a regular dose of calcium, the body is known to absorb the excess calcium deposits on the bones, thereby serving as a simple treatment for the problem. This method, however, has not always been recommended, and therefore, you should not take recourse to such a measure, unless you have been specifically asked to by a doctor. In very severe cases, you may be asked to undergo a surgical procedure called arthroscopy, for the removal of the calcium deposits.

The pain and swelling caused by the collection of too much calcium on bones can be temporarily reduced by using an ice pack on the affected area. Moreover, the affected area should be given as much rest as possible. For instance, if it is the shoulder, you might have to wear a sling in order to keep it from over-exertion. Also, physiotherapy may be applied to ease the pain and aid easy movement of the joints.

With the knowledge of the causes, symptoms and treatment procedures for calcium deposits on bones, you can now identify if it is this condition that is causing you a lot of pain, and undergo the necessary treatment to rectify this condition.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only and does not, in any way, intend to replace the advice of a medical expert.