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Rotator cuff tendinopathy — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateAmbulatory Medicine / Primary CareRotator cuff tendinopathyUSMLE Step 3

A 56-year-old painter has lateral shoulder pain that worsens when reaching overhead. Passive range of motion is nearly full, but active abduction is painful between 60 and 120 degrees. There is no neck pain or hand numbness. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: C — Rotator cuff tendinopathy

Painful arc with preserved passive range of motion suggests rotator cuff tendinopathy rather than frozen shoulder.

Reference: AAOS shoulder pain guidance: https://www.aaos.org/