Table 1: Major differential factors commonly present in rotator cuff disorder, adhesive capsulitis, and traumatic injury.

Shoulder Disorder Patient History Physical Examination Specialized Tests
Rotator Cuff Disorder 35 years or older
Repetitive or static postures in work environment
Overhead work
Night pain
Atrophy
Deformity
Swelling
Redness
Tenderness
Recommended tests for suspected general rotator cuff disorder:
-Painful arc test
-Internal and external rotation lag test
-Drop arm test
-Empty can test or external rotation resistance test
Weakness or pain in:
-Adduction/abduction
-Flexion/extension
-Internal/external rotation
Suspected full rotator cuff tear:
-Drop arm test
-Painful arc test
-Infraspinatus test
Suspected impingement:
-Hawkins-Kennedy test
-Painful arc test
-Infraspinatus test
Adhesive Capulitis 40-60 years of age
Idiopathic onset
May be diabetic
Limited global active and passive ROM Specialized tests not recommended

X-ray recommended to exclude osteoarthritis
Traumatic Injury High impact on or around shoulder Check for red flags
Deformity
Swelling
Atrophy
Tenderness
Specialized tests may be used to check asymptomatic injuries

Further investigations recommended