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

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:

• Spinal cord injury
• Paraplegia
• Tetraplegia
• Shoulder pain
• Rehabilitation

Acknowledgements

The authors acknowledge the Whadjuk Noongar people, the traditional custodians of the Whadjuk Boodja where this research took place, and pay respect to the continuing contributions made to the region. The authors also thank Associate Professor William Gibson, the Joanna Briggs Institute, UNDA Library staff, Dr Adrian Mallows from the University of Essex, and knowledge users, including Stephanie Coates, who advised us on the development and execution of this research. This material has not been presented elsewhere.

Disclaimer statements

Contributors None.

Funding This work was supported by the Australian Physiotherapy Association WA Branch under the Marcus J Rosen Fund.

Conflicts of interest Authors have no conflict of interests to declare.