Rotator Cuff Related Shoulder Pain
Evidence Based Guidelines & Physiotherapy
Subacromial and rotator cuff related shoulder pain are painful conditions of the shoulder that may include pathology of several structures including the rotator cuff tendons and muscles, biceps tendon and subacromial bursa.
They often present as :
IMAGING
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) advise that imaging such as X-Ray, Ultrasound or MRI should initially be avoided!
Imaging changes are common in asymptomatic individuals, therefore have little diagnostic relevance. Early imaging should only be considered if signs of sinister pathology are present.
Studies that look at imaging findings in Asymptomatic (pain free) adults have found that up to 50% of 60 year olds have a rotator cuff tear, and over 75% have bursal thickening.
MANAGEMENT
The RACGP advise that early physiotherapist assessment and intervention is advised for all subacromial and rotator cuff related shoulder issues.
Invasive interventions such as surgery and injection therapies have limited evidence of benefit and should not be pursued early in management.
Our experienced physiotherapists specialise in :
- Clinical assessment to determine the management plan
- Manual Therapy
- Scapular and Rotator Cuff strengthening
- Patient education regarding prognosis, activity modification and active management.
- Active rehabilitation to address impairments, decrease pain and increase function.
- Determining when referral may be necessary.
