Functional limitation and associated factors in patients presenting with shoulder pain at AaBET hospital, Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract Background: Shoulder pain is a common condition which affects functional and quality of life. Even though this condition occurs so frequently, there is no localized data on functional limitation and associated factors among shoulder pain patients in Ethiopia. This study is conducted to fill the gap by improving information on functional limitations and identifying associated factors among adult patients with shoulder pain presenting to AaBET Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Objective: The primary objective of this study was to determine the functional limitations and associated factors among adult patients with shoulder pain at AaBET Hospital’s sports clinic. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted between August 2024 and January 2025 at the Orthopedics and Traumatology department in AaBET Hospital, which included 66 adult patients aged 18 years and above presenting with pain in the shoulder. Data were collected using standardized questionnaires, medical record reviews, and functional assessments using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). Descriptive statistics, bivariable, and multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted to identify predictors of functional limitation. The level of statistical significance was set below 0.05. Results: The study revealed that 62.1% of participants had severe functional limitations, with a mean SPADI score of 61.8 (±15.7). Chronic dislocation was the most significant predictor of functional limitation, followed by rotator cuff tears and adhesive capsulitis. Female participants reported higher SPADI scores compared to males (p = 0.002). Shoulder flexion range of motion (ROM) showed a strong negative correlation with functional limitations (Spearman's rho = -0.660, p < 0.001). Symptom duration and occupation were not significantly associated with functional limitations in the multivariable analysis. Conclusion: Chronic dislocation, rotator cuff tears, and adhesive capsulitis were the most significant contributors to functional limitations in patients with shoulder pain. The study highlights the importance of early intervention and targeted rehabilitation to improve shoulder mobility and reduce disability. These findings provide valuable insights for clinicians and policymakers in managing shoulder pain in resource-constrained settings like Ethiopia. Keywords: Shoulder pain, functional limitation, SPADI, associated factors, Ethiopia, crosssectional study, AaBET Hospital