Shoulder pain rehabilitation: a review
Adriano Coladonato, Virginia Colibazzi, Camilla Arcidiacono, Camilla Galli
Shoulder pain is a condition characterized by the involvement of various structures such as joints, tendons and muscles. The manifestation of pain can be a direct or secondary result of trauma, repetitive movements, or neurological damage. A painful symptom often causes activity limitations and can evolve toward a chronic condition. The symptom may be difficult to treat, as only 50% of patients with episodes of recent onset have a complete recovery at 6 months, and this figure increases to only 60% at 1 year. The aim of this study was to identify the best evidence for the rehabilitation treatment of patients with shoulder pain, considering both disability and quality of life as outcomes. The interventions identified include manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, instrumental physiotherapy and pharmacological treatment.