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Adhesive capsulitis — SCE Rheumatology MCQ

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ModerateOsteoarthritis and soft tissue rheumatologyAdhesive capsulitisSCE Rheumatology

A 54-year-old man with diabetes has progressive shoulder pain and global restriction of active and passive movement, especially external rotation. X-ray is normal and there is no weakness on resisted rotator cuff testing. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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

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Correct answer: D — Adhesive capsulitis

Adhesive capsulitis causes painful global restriction of active and passive shoulder movement, classically external rotation, and is associated with diabetes. Rotator cuff tears mainly impair active movement and strength while passive movement is relatively preserved. Normal X-ray helps exclude glenohumeral OA.

Reference: BOA/BESS shoulder pathway; BSR rheumatology curriculum