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Shoulder pain - Management
Basis for recommendation
- A New Zealand guideline advises considering referral to an orthopaedic specialist if a sprain is suspected and there is an inadequate improvement after 3 months, or earlier for certain groups who may benefit from surgical stabilization [NZGG, 2004]. Feedback from an expert reviewer suggests that rheumatologists may manage this group of people with corticosteroid injections.
- The recommendation to refer immediately if dislocation is suspected or red flag features are present is based on a review of the management of shoulder pain in primary care [Mitchell, 2008].
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