Shoulder Special testing

Question 1

Drop Arm Test

Answer 1

• tests rotator cuff integrity (particularly in the supraspinatus)
• in sitting or standing
• Abduct patient arm to 90 degrees. Let go. If arm drops then (+) for massive tear. If not, add quick resistance downward.

Question 2

Neer’s Test

Answer 2

• impingement test
• apply overpressure at end range of flexion. (can bend elbow)

*Key: to stabilize scapula and be sure to get to end range.

Question 3

Hawkins-Kennedy

Answer 3

• impingement test
• 90 degrees of shoulder flexion and elbow flexion then internally rotate.

*Key: to keep humerus in sagittal plane, stabilize to prevent SC elevation.

Question 4

Yocum Test

Answer 4

• impingement test
• Place patient’s hand on opposite shoulder (over AC) and examiner raises elbow up towards head.
• (+) test = pain over anterior shoulder.

Question 5

Supine Impingement Test

Answer 5

• impingement test
• Examiner passively flexes patient’s shoulder to end range in full ER then adduscts to patient’s ear. From here, internally rotate GH.
• (+) = inc pain with IR. Is non-specific

Question 6

Relocation Test

Answer 6

-Abduct patient arm to 90 with ER to pain, apply posterior glide. If post glide reduces pain = (+)