Chronic shoulder pain is a significant health issue affecting approximately 16% of adults worldwide. While some may experience temporary discomfort, up to 50% of individuals continue to suffer from symptoms for over two years, leading to a considerable burden on their daily lives, work, and social activities. Chronic shoulder pain is defined as persistent or recurrent pain in the shoulder’s bones, joints, muscles, or adjacent tissues lasting longer than three months, not attributed to other causes or diseases.

A recent study conducted by a team of clinicians, researchers, and a person with lived experience of chronic shoulder pain aimed to explore the lived and care experiences of Australian adults with this condition. The research, administered by Curtin University and funded by Arthritis and Osteoporosis WA, received ethical approval from Curtin University’s Human Research Ethics Committee.

Study Methodology

The study involved telephone interviews with adults across Australia who were living with chronic shoulder pain. These interviews, conducted between February and July 2022, focused on the impact of shoulder pain on daily activities and care experiences. Each interview was recorded, transcribed, and systematically analysed to identify common themes.

Key Findings

The study interviewed 20 participants (10 women and 10 men) aged 20-78 years and identified five key themes related to the lived experience of chronic shoulder pain:

1. Impacts on Physical Functioning: Participants reported disruptions in daily living activities, including household chores, work, and recreational pursuits.
2. Impacts on Sleep and Energy Levels: Chronic shoulder pain affected participants’ sleep quality, energy levels, and overall drive.
3. Impacts on Mental Wellbeing and Sense of Self: The condition influenced mental health, leading to feelings of frustration and a diminished sense of self.
4. Different Coping Experiences: Participants employed various coping strategies to manage their pain.
5. Importance of Social Support and Participation: Social support played a crucial role in managing the condition and maintaining participation in activities.

Additionally, three themes emerged regarding care experiences:

1. Care Seeking Behaviours: The reasons and timing for seeking care varied among participants.
2. Experiences with Healthcare Professionals: Participants reported both positive and negative interactions with healthcare providers.
3. Values and Preferences for Care: Preferences for care included personalized education, involvement in decision-making, and collaborative healthcare teams.

Why These Findings Matter

This study addresses a significant gap in understanding the lived and care experiences of Australians with chronic shoulder pain, offering critical insights for improving person-centred care. By highlighting the profound physical, emotional, and social impacts of this condition, the research underscores the importance of tailored healthcare approaches. Participants emphasised the value of being heard, receiving personalised education, actively participating in decision-making, and experiencing cohesive teamwork among healthcare providers. These findings serve as a valuable guide for shaping service delivery pathways, fostering more effective and empathetic care, and ultimately improving outcomes for individuals living with chronic shoulder pain.