An analysis of publicly available National Health Service information leaflets for patients following an upper arm break

An Analysis of Publicly Available National Health Service Information Leaflets for Patients With Shoulder Osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND

Shoulder osteoarthritis is a common cause of pain, disability and difficulty sleeping. Patient information leaflets are produced by NHS Trusts with the aim of informing patients about their diagnosis and available treatment options.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to identify and describe the non-surgical management of people with shoulder osteoarthritis according to publicly available information leaflets produced by NHS Trusts.

METHODS

One reviewer undertook an electronic search using Google to identify publicly available patient-facing information leaflets (PIL) produced by NHS Trusts which detailed non-surgical management strategies for people with shoulder osteoarthritis. Relevant data were extracted by one reviewer and verified by two reviewers.

RESULTS

Seventeen PILs from 17 different UK NHS Trusts were identified ranging from December 2016 to February 2024. Information provided in the PIL varied, with topics including general osteoarthritis management, exercise, analgesia, injections, and surgical indications. No PIL covered all areas recommended in the NICE Osteoarthritis Management guidelines.

CONCLUSION

PILs developed and published by NHS Trusts are variable in content and do not fully reflect current clinical guidelines. High-quality research to inform consistent, clinically, and cost-effective treatment pathways, including information provision, for patients with shoulder osteoarthritis is needed.