Clinical and cost-effectiveness of a personalised guided consultation versus usual physiotherapy care in people presenting with shoulder pain: a protocol for the PANDA-S cluster randomised controlled trial and process evaluation

Overview of the Study

This study focuses on shoulder pain, a common issue that often leads people to seek physiotherapy. However, diagnosing the exact problem can be challenging, and current treatments may not be effective. Patients have expressed the need for clear information and personalized consultations to better manage their pain. This trial aims to test a new approach that provides tailored consultations for physiotherapists treating shoulder pain.

Study Design

This is a cluster randomised controlled trial involving 16 physiotherapy services in the UK. These services will be split into two groups: one receiving a new training package and personalized consultations, and the other receiving standard care. A total of 832 participants aged 18 and over with shoulder pain will be enrolled. Follow-up assessments will occur at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months.

Goals and Outcomes

The main goal is to measure the effectiveness of the personalized consultation in improving shoulder pain and disability over 12 months, using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). Other goals include assessing overall changes in shoulder conditions, sleep quality, work absence, healthcare usage, and overall quality of life.

Evaluation and Insights

Alongside clinical outcomes, the trial will collect feedback from both participants and physiotherapists to understand their experiences and any barriers to implementing the new consultation method. This will help identify what works well and what needs improvement.

Ethics and Communication

The trial has received ethical approval and results will be shared through various channels, including journals, media, and a dedicated website. This ensures that findings reach both the medical community and the public effectively.

Opportunities for Improvement

Based on the trial data, clinics can explore the following:

Define measurable outcomes for better patient care.
Set clear goals for evaluating clinical and cost-effectiveness of consultations.
Select AI tools that meet specific clinical needs.
Implement changes gradually, starting with pilot projects to track results.