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A trial that evaluated the clinical and cost effectiveness of physiotherapy treatments for rotator cuff disorders suggests cost savings can be made while maintaining positive patient outcomes.

Woman grasping her shoulder

The GRASP (Getting it Right: Addressing Shoulder Pain) trial compared a comprehensive supervised physiotherapy exercise programme versus a single session of best practice physiotherapy advice, with or without corticosteroid injection, in adults with a rotator cuff disorder.

Rotator cuff disorders are one of the most common causes of shoulder pain, accounting for around 70% all shoulder conditions. People with rotator cuff disorders often experience significant shoulder pain and impaired function. Treatment options include rest, advice, medication, exercise, manual therapy, and corticosteroid injections. However, use of these treatments can be highly variable. There is also considerable uncertainty around their effectiveness, mode of delivery and possible long-term harm.

Read the full news story on the Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences website