Osteoarthritis of the shoulder

Persistent symptomatic glenohumeral osteoarthritis.

Eligibility

At least one must be met for the patient to be eligible for referral.

X-ray confirmed osteoarthritis (AP and lateral views of the affected shoulder)

≥6 months of targeted education, physiotherapy (if tolerated) and medication trialled

Routine referral criteria

Determine Category 2 or 3 urgency.

Ongoing moderate or severe pain despite ≥6 months of conservative treatment

Functional impairment (work, sleep, ADLs) despite ≥6 months of conservative treatment

Usually managed in primary care

Shoulder OA where ≥6 months of education, physiotherapy and medication has not been trialled
Ultrasound is not indicated; MRI not required if OA shown on x-ray