Question

multiple choice question
a 45 - year - old office worker presents with worsening shoulder pain exacerbated by overhead activities. on examination, there is tenderness over the anterior and lateral aspects of the shoulder. x - ray imaging reveals no bony abnormalities. what is the most likely diagnosis?
please select your answer...
a shoulder impingement syndrome
b frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
c glenohumeral instability
d shoulder dislocation

Explanation:

• Shoulder impingement syndrome: Common in office workers (sedentary lifestyle can contribute to muscle imbalances). Pain exacerbated by overhead activities (as in this case). Tenderness over anterior and lateral shoulder (typical location). X - ray shows no bony abnormalities (consistent as it is a soft - tissue/impingement issue, not a bony one).
• Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis): Usually has significant restriction in both active and passive range of motion (not mentioned here). Pain is often more constant and with more global shoulder stiffness rather than just tenderness over specific areas.
• Glenohumeral instability: Usually has a history of trauma (not indicated here) and symptoms like a feeling of the shoulder “slipping” or giving way, which is not described.
• Shoulder dislocation: Would have a more acute onset (usually after a fall or trauma), and the shoulder would be visibly deformed (not the case as X - ray shows no bony issues related to dislocation).

Answer:

A. Shoulder impingement syndrome