Shoulder Special Tests Overview

A test used to assess anterior instability of the glenohumeral (shoulder) joint.

The test is performed by progressively rotating the patient's arm laterally in different positions. This reproduces pain or apprehension related to the capsule (the connective tissue surrounding the joint) and assesses the stability of the shoulder.

The test is positive when the patient experiences apprehension, meaning they feel pain or discomfort, especially when the shoulder is rotated posteriorly.

The patient is typically seated during the test, while the examiner stands behind them.

The examiner stands behind the seated patient.

A test to assess the integrity of the transverse humeral ligament, which is a key structure in the shoulder joint.

A test to identify injuries to the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, where the shoulder is moved into horizontal adduction (bringing the arm across the body) and pain is experienced.

A test to evaluate the stability of the AC joint, where the shoulder is moved passively and an abnormal amount of movement, accompanied by pain, indicates an injury to the AC joint.

The transverse humeral ligament is a band of tissue that helps to stabilize the biceps tendon in the shoulder joint.

A test to diagnose labral injuries in the shoulder, involving movements that can elicit clicking and pain, especially in certain positions. Pain is reduced in specific positions, suggesting a labral tear.

A condition where the biceps tendon pops out of its groove due to damage of the transverse humeral ligament.

A test assessing the function of the bicipital tendon and surrounding structures.

An injury to the labrum, a ring of cartilage surrounding the shoulder socket, which can cause pain, clicking, and instability.

A condition where the shoulder blade (scapula) moves abnormally, often due to muscle weakness or imbalance.

A joint between the clavicle (collarbone) and the acromion (shoulder blade).

A test to evaluate the stability of the sternoclavicular (SC) joint, where pressure is applied to the clavicle, causing pain if the joint is injured.

A joint between the sternum (breastbone) and the clavicle (collarbone).

A test used to diagnose a shoulder labral tear, based on pain, clicking, and changes in pain with different arm positions.

A test used to diagnose rotator cuff tears, particularly involving the supraspinatus muscle.

The patient is asked to slowly lower their arm back to the side in a controlled motion while the examiner removes support.

A positive result occurs when the patient is unable to return the arm to the side slowly due to pain or weakness.

The test is named after Dr. Ernest A. Codman, an orthopedic surgeon who first described it.

The examiner places one hand on the spine of the scapula and the other hand on the clavicle, then squeezes their hands together, applying a shearing force.

A common injury to the rotator cuff muscles, particularly the supraspinatus, leading to pain and weakness in the shoulder.

A group of four muscles that surround the shoulder joint, responsible for controlling movement and stability.

The muscle that plays a significant role in the Drop Arm Test, often the target of injury.

A test that assesses the coordinated movement of the scapula and humerus during shoulder abduction.

A condition involving stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, often due to inflammation or thickening of the joint capsule.

A condition in which the scapula doesn't move correctly during shoulder movement.

A disorder where the scapula doesn't sit properly on the rib cage, leading to potential pain and dysfunction.

A type of shoulder pain that occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles are compressed or irritated.

A condition marked by an excessive tightness and inflammation of the shoulder joint capsule, restricting motion.

A muscle that plays a key role in stabilizing the shoulder blade and rotating the scapula forward.

A condition where the upper trapezius muscle is overactive and the serratus anterior muscle is underactive, contributing to poor scapular control.

Pain experienced in the upper part of the biceps tendon during movement.

A test used to assess injuries to the supraspinatus muscle, a rotator cuff muscle.

Injury or inflammation of the supraspinatus muscle in the shoulder.

This test involves applying resistance to the forearm while the arm is in a flexed and supinated position (palm facing up).

This test involves raising the arm to 90 degrees abduction (sideways) and applying resistance while the arm is held in that position.

An overuse injury or inflammation of the biceps tendon, often caused by repetitive movements or heavy lifting.

This test evaluates the strength of the biceps muscle by applying resistance to the forearm in both supinated (palm up) and pronated (palm down) positions.

The part of the biceps tendon closer to the shoulder joint.