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Rotator cuff-related shoulder pain — MRCGP AKT MCQ

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ModerateShoulder InjuriesRotator cuff-related shoulder painMRCGP AKT

A 35-year-old tennis player with rotator cuff-related pain has completed eight weeks of strengthening. Pain is controlled at rest, but serving causes fatigue and loss of external rotation strength late in sets. What is the most appropriate return-to-play decision?

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

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Correct answer: A — Progress serving volume after endurance and strength are restored

Return to overhead sport should consider strength, endurance, range of movement and sport-specific tolerance. Resting pain alone does not indicate readiness for repeated high-velocity serving. Graduated exposure helps avoid recurrence.

Reference: BJSM/Brukner & Khan