
%0 Journal Article
%A Robb, Gillian 
%A Arroll, Bruce 
%A Reid, Duncan 
%A Goodyear-Smith, Felicity 
%T Summary of an evidence-based guideline on soft tissue injuries and related disorders &#x2013; Part 1: Assessment
%J Journal of Primary Health Care
%D 2009/03/01
%V 1
%N 1
%P 36-41
%K 
%R https://doi.org/10.1071/HC09036
%U https://www.publish.csiro.au/paper/HC09036 
%X AIM: To provide a succinct summary of the diagnosis of soft tissue injuries to the shoulder for primary health care practitioners based on the New Zealand guideline. METHODS: A multidisciplinary team developed the guideline by critically appraising and grading retrieved literature using the Graphic Appraisal Tool for Epidemiology (GATE). Recommendations were derived from resulting evidence tables. RESULTS: Diagnostic ultrasound is a valid tool for the diagnosis of a full thickness rotator cuff tear. If a significant tear is suspected, referral for diagnostic ultrasound is recommended. There is a paucity of evidence for the diagnosis of soft tissue shoulder injuries and most recommendations are based on the consensus of the guideline team. CONCLUSION: Assessment relies on thorough history-taking and physician examination with appropriate referral where there is evidence of serious damage or the diagnosis remains unclear. KEYWORDS: Shoulder, shoulder pain, diagnosis, soft tissue injuries 
