Shoulder pain is a common problem accounting for significant morbidity and disability in the community. As the third most frequent musculoskeletal problem presenting in primary care, shoulder pain has a prevalence of 16–26% in the UK population and around 1% of adults consult their GP with a new presentation of shoulder pain each year. The aetiology of shoulder pain is diverse and many disorders present with similar symptoms and signs. Patients with shoulder pain suffer from a spectrum of functional disability; they may have difficulty performing many essential activities of daily living and are often forced to take time off work.
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