skip to main content

Rotator cuff-related shoulder pain — MRCGP AKT MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardShoulder InjuriesRotator cuff-related shoulder painMRCGP AKT

A 37-year-old swimmer develops atraumatic shoulder pain after a training-load increase. There is a painful arc but no profound weakness, systemic feature or neurological deficit. What is the appropriate initial investigation strategy?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Structured rehabilitation before imaging

The best answer is “Structured rehabilitation before imaging”. Atraumatic rotator-cuff-related shoulder pain without red flags is initially managed clinically with activity modification and progressive rehabilitation. Imaging is considered after failed conservative care, major weakness, trauma or suspicion of another diagnosis because asymptomatic structural findings are common and may not alter initial treatment.

Reference: NICE NG226: Osteoarthritis: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng226/chapter/Recommendations