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Predictors of chronic shoulder pain: a population based prospective study
G J Macfarlane1, I M Hunt, A J Silman
1Arthritis and Rheumatism Council Epidemiology Research Unit, School of Epidemiology and Health Sciences, University of Manchester, United Kingdom.
The Journal of Rheumatology
|August 26, 1998
Summary
Shoulder pain often persists long-term, causing disability. Key predictors include localized pain, existing disability, and psychological distress, highlighting the need for comprehensive assessment in managing shoulder pain.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Musculoskeletal Health
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Shoulder pain is a common complaint with uncertain long-term prognosis.
- Understanding the natural history and predictors of shoulder pain is crucial for effective management.
- Previous studies may have been limited by varying definitions of shoulder pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the long-term course of shoulder pain in the general population.
- To identify clinical and individual factors predicting the outcome of shoulder pain.
- To assess the impact of different definitions of shoulder pain on study outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Prospective cohort study design.
- Follow-up of subjects over a 3-year period.
- Recruitment from a cross-sectional population screening study in the Greater Manchester area.
Main Results:
- 54% of subjects with initial shoulder pain reported persistent symptoms at 3-year follow-up.
- Persistent pain was associated with significant disability in 90% of cases.
- Predictors of continued symptoms included localized pain, disability, symptom duration, and psychological distress (General Health Questionnaire score).
Conclusions:
- Shoulder pain is frequently a long-term, disabling condition.
- Disability is a strong predictor of persistent shoulder pain, irrespective of joint mobility.
- The definition of shoulder pain significantly influences observed outcomes in epidemiological research.