Shoulder pain.

BACKGROUND

Shoulder pain is common in general practice and is a condition that frequently becomes chronic. Presentation includes either pain, weakness and stiffness, or a combination of these symptoms.

OBJECTIVE

This article presents a systematic approach to diagnosing and managing disorders of the shoulder joint and surrounding structures.

DISCUSSION

Thorough history taking (including psychosocial aspects) and skilled examination are essential; special investigations rarely affect the general practitioner's management of shoulder pain. The tendency toward chronicity of shoulder pain (increased by certain biological and psychosocial risks) means that the clinician should adopt a patient centred approach in choosing from a wide range of treatment modalities.