Shoulder Questions

Question 1

Rotator Cuff Muscles

Answer 1

Supraspinatus - anterosuperior cuff
Infraspinatus - posterior cuff
Teres minor - posterior cuff
Subscapularis - anteroinferior cuff

Question 2

Joints

Answer 2

Sternoclavicular
Acromioclavicular
Glenohumeral
Scapulothoracic

Question 3

Impingement Syndrome / Painful Arc Syndrome

Answer 3

Usually middle aged pt
Hawkin’s test

Underlying pathology is supraspinatus tendonitis.

Painful arc is classical sign of supraspinatus tendonitis. Pain during shoulder ABduction between 60 and 120. Due to ‘impingement’ of the underside of the acromion on the inflamed tendon.

Question 4

Frozen Shoulder

Answer 4

Adhesive capsulitis of glenohumeral joint.

Most commonly affects ages 40-65.

Can occur spontaneously, following rotator cuff injury and following immobility.

Diabetes and thyroid disease are risk factors.

Question 5

Frozen Shoulder Phases

Answer 5

Freezing Phase: gradual onset of shoulder pain and stiffness. 2-9 months.

Frozen Phase: pain subsides but stiffness remains. External rotation is usually very limited. 4-12 month.

Thawing Phase: gradual return of movement. Recovery may be incomplete. 1-3 years.

Question 6

Complications of anterior dislocation of shoulder

95% are anterior!

Answer 6

Axillary nerve damage
Brachial plexus / other nerve damage
Axillary artery damage
Associated fracture: humeral head, clavicle, acromion
Recurrent shoulder dislocation
Rotator cuff injury

Question 7

Common Shoulder Joint Pathology

Answer 7

1. Instability - usually young, previous dislocation(s), shoulder apprehension test
2. Impingement syndrome
3. Rotator Cuff tear - usually older pt