Exploring the Lived and Treatment-Related Experiences of Individuals With Musculoskeletal Shoulder Disorders: Protocol for a Qualitative Evidence Synthesis

Musculoskeletal (MSK) shoulder disorders are multidimensional conditions that extend beyond physical impairment, encompassing psychological, sociocultural, and emotional dimensions as well. Qualitative research is particularly well suited to explore these aspects through individuals’ experiences. Since the last qualitative evidence synthesis in 2019, new studies and methodological advances have further deepened our understanding of these disorders. This qualitative evidence synthesis aims to systematically identify and synthesize the lived and treatment-related experiences of individuals with shoulder disorders. We will search Academic Search Premier, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, and the Web of Science Core Collection. In addition, we will explore gray literature and conduct supplementary searches, including backward and forward citation tracking, manual searches, and outreach to researchers with expertise relevant to the review topic. We will include primary qualitative studies, as well as qualitative components of mixed-methods studies. All references will be imported into Covidence for comprehensive study selection. If needed, a purposeful sampling strategy guided by a maximum purposive sample frame may be employed. Data will be extracted using a standardized form designed for this synthesis. Methodological limitations will be assessed using the Cochrane qualitative Methodological Limitations Tool (CAMELOT). Evidence will be analyzed using thematic synthesis following a three-step approach: line by line reading, development of descriptive themes, and generation of analytical themes. Confidence in each review finding will be evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation confidence in evidence from reviews of qualitative research (GRADE-CERQual). Using a structured and transparent rationale for selecting the synthesis approach, we aim to develop analytical themes that advance understanding of the multidimensional experiences of shoulder disorders. Input from interest-holders will enhance interpretive rigor and ensure clinically meaningful, transferable findings. Anticipated challenges will be addressed through a rigorous, transparent, and reflexive collaborative approach.