Authors:

Ryan J. Warth, Peter J. Millett

Abstract:

Proper diagnosis and treatment of the various physical ailments with which patients present to health care providers depends on accurate and efficient history and physical examination. This is arguably never more important than in the evaluation of symptoms relating to the shoulder, one of the most com- plicated of all the bioengineering marvels of the human body, and one of the most common sources of patient complaints.

The differential diagnosis of shoulder pain requires consideration of a very long list of potential etiologies that can range anywhere from bursitis and rotator cuff disease to cervical spine pathology in addition to any number of coexisting conditions. Appropriate performance and interpretation of the shoulder examination are essential skills that can answer many questions regarding etiologies, potential diagnoses and treatment options including surgical planning and postoperative management. This book provides an integrated approach to the diagnosis of numerous shoulder pathologies by combining discussions of pathoanatomy and the interpretation of physical examination techniques and was written for any health care professional or student who may be required to evaluate patients who present with shoulder pain. This information will allow the clinician to make informed decisions regarding further testing procedures, imaging and potential therapeutic options. The primary goal of this book is to provide readers with the knowledge and confidence required to perform an appropriate examination and to generate a succinct list of differential diagnoses using an evidence-based approach.

For the complete study: Physical Examination of the Shoulder