MSK Shoulder Assessment

This presentation delivers a structured, 11-point framework for comprehensive shoulder assessment, guiding clinicians through subjective history-taking, visual observation, palpation, and range-of-motion testing, alongside objective measurement, pathology-specific special tests with supporting evidence, vascular screening, stability evaluation, and imaging considerations. It emphasises differential assessment of the cervical spine, glenohumeral joint, and sternoclavicular joint, and includes red flag screening to identify sinister pathology and urgent referral needs. The course is built around developing robust clinical reasoning — moving from information gathering to hypothesis testing and informed decision-making — while integrating manual therapy techniques as an assessment tool to gauge tissue behaviour and inform prognosis. Every step follows a logical, systematic process, ensuring clinicians can conduct safe, thorough evaluations and track progress using validated clinical measures.

Learning Points

• Use a structured approach to shoulder assessment.

• Identify key findings to support differential diagnosis.

• Recognise red flags and indications for referral.

• Apply evidence-based tests to guide clinical decisions.