Physical exam of the shoulder UTD

Question 1

what is important to do w/ any recent traumatic injuries, neuro complaints (weakness, paresthesias), or unusual presentations

Answer 1

careful neurovascular exam. if none of these, a basic neurovascular exam confirming basic motor function and sensation and adequate blood flow is sufficient

Question 2

neurovascular injuries associated with shoulder complaints incllude

Answer 2

cervical spine fracture and spinal cord injury, brachial plexus neuropraxia, and axillary nerve injury (often associated w/ anterior glenohumeral dislocation)

Question 3

_____ is an important but often overlooked part of the shoulder exam

Answer 3

inspection. make note of the patient’s posture, including how they hold the affected arm, the appearance of the entire shoulder including the posterior glenohumeral and scapulothoracic regions, and any deformity, asymmetry, or skin abnormality

Question 4

When palpating, the practitioner should include (at minimum) what parts of the shoulder?

Answer 4

cervical spine, scapular spine and adjacent musculature, acromion and the subacromial space, bicipital groove, greater and lesser tuberosities of the humerus, and the clavicle, including the sternoclavicular (SC) and acromioclavicular (AC) joints

Question 5

____ is among the most common causes of shoulder pain, especially in patients over the age of 30.

Answer 5

Rotator cuff injury. Know exam maneuvers

Question 6

Among patients who work at a desk, _____ is a common contributor to shoulder pain

Answer 6

scapulothoracic dysfuntion

Question 7

ROM testing

Answer 7

helps to determine the site and nature of intrinsic shoulder pain

Question 8

Glenohumeral instability due to weakness or laxity in some of the structures that stabilize the joint may cause

Answer 8

shoulder discomfort in young throwing athletes, people with weak shoulder musculature, and patients who have sustained a rotator cuff tear