Meeting the challenge of chronic shoulder pain: the diagnosis: this complex clinical condition has multiple and even overlapping causes

Shoulder pain is a complex clinical condition, making the diagnosis difficult for even experienced clinicians. The most common causes of chronic shoulder pain are rotator cuff disorders and osteoarthritis of the glenohumeral joint. The shoulder is composed of 4 separate articulations, all of which may be sources of pain. Taking a thorough history is necessary to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. Important assessments include the patient's level of pain and functional limitations pertaining to the shoulder. The physical examination begins with inspection and palpation; comparing the shoulders is important. Several provocative tests may be used to determine rotator cuff pathology. Anteroposterior, scapular 'Y,' and axillary lateral are the standard radiographic views used to assess shoulder pain. CT, ultrasonography, and MRI also may be used. (J Musculoskel Med. 2010;27:317-322)
Shoulder pain is a complex clinical condition, with multiple and even overlapping causes, which makes the diagnosis and treatment difficult for even the most experienced clinicians. The most common causes [...]