Research update: Otago Shoulder Health Study

Over the past few months, we have sought people with shoulder pain to take part in a study at the University of Otago. We are very grateful for all respondents to the advertising that sought more information, were screened, and those that took part in the study, or are still taking part. We cannot advance knowledge about how to improve health care without people volunteering to take part in studies. Thank you to all!

We were seeking people specifically with rotator cuff related shoulder pain (subacromial shoulder pain) and the study is seeking to find out whether manual therapy has additional benefits when added to evidence-based physiotherapy care. 

The physiotherapy sessions started in the School of Physiotherapy Clinics in Ōtautahi Christchurch and Ōtepoti Dunedin in June 2023. Unfortunately our clinic in Christchurch had to close in November. But we are very happy that the Christchurch Physiotherapy and Sports Clinic was able to join the study, and are now providing the physiotherapy sessions in that city.

This study is funded by a Stanley Paris Fellowship, School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago.

For more information, click on the link below or contact our project manager, Christina Douglas, at shoulder@otago.ac.nz. 

Infographic designed by Year 4 Physiotherapy students: Ayla Galbraith, Levi Ihaka, Kiti Taituha, Ashley Vercoe, Kate York