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Home « Clinical Services « Shoulder & Elbow « Evaluate Shoulder Problems

Quick guide to the evaluation and management of shoulder problems

Unless there has been a major traumatic injury or evidence of infection, there is time for the ‘basic approach’ listed below.

I. History
    Date and circumstances of onset
    Previous treatment
    Factors that aggravate

II. Exam
    Is the shoulder stiff?
    Is the shoulder unstable?
    Is the shoulder weak?
    Is the shoulder rough?

III. Radiographs
    The two key xrays to take are the AP in the plane of the scapula and the axillary lateral. These will show arthritis or may suggest instability. Click to view images.

IV. Initial management of shoulder problems that are not fractures or infections includes non-narcotic analgesics and gentle exercises that the patient can perform themselves.

    A. Exercises for the stiff shoulder
    B. Exercises for the unstable shoulder
    C. Exercises for the weak shoulder
    D. Exercises for the rough shoulder

V. If the patient is not improving after six weeks on the regimens above, please contact us: cchebli@u.washington.edu


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