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Health can be viewed from several perspectives. It has been shown that impingement of the shoulder leads to functional inability and decreased life quality. The aim of this study was to investigate the complexity of the effect of shoulder problems and discern and describe what it entails to be a patient suffering from shoulder problems. The study delineated patients' situations prior to and following medical intervention. This study is qualitative, and the data were collected through focus group interviews. Interviews with 26 respondents aged 43-63 (mean age 53) were made in 2005-2007. The sample group consisted of patients with supraspinatus tendinitis receiving either conservative treatment or surgery. Thematic analysis was used. Meaning units or themes were identified and interpreted in context and related to the ICF model and Antonovsky's theory for the factors capable of affecting health. Prior to intervention, pain was the attribute most strongly associated with shoulder problems. Four clear focus categories, all of which contain a dimension of pain, were identified. Postintervention interviews permitted data analysis from two main perspectives: 1) process and 2) result. Patients should feel part of the care process and their experience should include comprehensibility, manageability, and meaningfulness. A supportive environment helps ensure such, allowing for a successful rehabilitation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]