skip to main content

Adhesive capsulitis — RACGP Fellowship MCQ

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

HardMusculoskeletal and sportsAdhesive capsulitisRACGP Fellowship

A 55-year-old woman with diabetes has four months of severe shoulder pain followed by progressive stiffness. Plain radiography is normal, and both active and passive external rotation are markedly restricted. Education, paracetamol and activity modification have not restored sleep or function. Which next intervention is most appropriate?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Glenohumeral corticosteroid injection with gentle range-of-motion therapy

Explanation lettering: E = shown as A · D = shown as B · A = shown as D · B = shown as E

C is correct. The pattern is adhesive capsulitis; an intra-articular glenohumeral corticosteroid injection can improve short-term pain and function, enabling appropriately paced mobility work. A targets the subacromial space rather than the contracted capsule. B is not first-line without a structural surgical lesion. D treats cervical radicular disease, which is not described. E promotes further capsular restriction and functional loss.

Reference: RACGP, Shoulder injuries – management in general practice: https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2012/april/shoulder-injuries/