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. 2024 May;47(3):327-344.
doi: 10.1080/10790268.2023.2183335. Epub 2023 Mar 13.

Models of care for musculoskeletal shoulder pain in spinal cord injury: A scoping review

Jordan G A Keightley  1   2 , Bianca Haagman  1   2 , Julie D Magner  2 , James R Debenham  1   2   3
Affiliations

Models of care for musculoskeletal shoulder pain in spinal cord injury: A scoping review

Jordan G A Keightley et al. J Spinal Cord Med. 2024 May.

Abstract

Context: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a neurological condition that significantly impacts a person's lifestyle, health and well-being. Many individuals with SCI experience secondary musculoskeletal shoulder pain. This scoping review examines the current research on the diagnosis and management of shoulder pain in SCI.

Objective: The aim of this Scoping Review was (1) to chart peer-reviewed literature regarding the diagnosis and management of shoulder pain as it relates to SCI and (2) identify gaps in this body of literature to inform future research priorities.

Methods: Six electronic databases were searched from inception until April 2022. In addition, reviewers scanned the reference lists of identified articles. Articles from peer-reviewed sources that reported diagnostic or management procedures for musculoskeletal shoulder conditions within the SCI population were considered and 1679 articles were identified. Title and abstract screening, full text review, and data extraction were undertaken by two independent reviewers.

Results: Eighty seven articles were included, covering diagnosis or management of shoulder pain in SCI.

Conclusion: Whilst the most commonly reported diagnostic procedures and management strategies reflect contemporary practice for shoulder pain, the entire body of literature demonstrates inconsistencies in methodologies. In places, the literature continues to perceive value in procedures inconsistent with best practice. These findings encourage researchers to pursue the development of robust models of care for musculoskeletal shoulder pain in SCI using a collaborative and integrated approach, combining best practice for musculoskeletal shoulder pain alongside clinical expertise in the management of SCI.

Keywords: Paraplegia; Rehabilitation; Shoulder pain; Spinal cord injury; Tetraplegia.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
PRISMA-ScR flow chart. *Articles where the population included <80% people with SCI, but the subject matter was relevant to our research question. †Where population was one or all of the following: did not mention SCI, neurological conditions other than SCI, multiple neurological conditions and <80% SCI.
Figure 2
Figure 2
World map of the countries identified from the scoping review.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Management sub-themes for musculoskeletal shoulder pain in the SCI Population.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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