A Clinical Vignette of Insidious Shoulder Pain and Weakness

Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2020 Jul;99(7):652-655. doi: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000001296.

Abstract

We present a case of a 53-yr-old woman presenting with insidious shoulder pain and weakness. This case will go through the physical examination of the shoulder, a broad differential diagnosis, and analysis of appropriate imaging and tests to culminate in determining the final diagnosis. The objective of this clinical vignette was to highlight the importance of obtaining an extensive differential for shoulder pain and give readers a chance to critically analyze the case findings through electromyography interpretation, evaluating neurological signs and identifying key points in history taking. In addition, readers will also learn the evidence behind the available treatment options.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Cysts / diagnostic imaging*
  • Cysts / therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Electromyography
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Middle Aged
  • Muscle Weakness / etiology*
  • Muscular Atrophy / etiology
  • Neural Conduction
  • Physical Examination
  • Shoulder / diagnostic imaging*
  • Shoulder Pain / etiology*