Resisted Supination External Rotation Test
Purpose: To identify individuals with SLAP lesions.
Test Position: Supine.
Performing the Test: The tested extremity is placed in 90 degrees of shoulder abduction with neutral rotation. With the elbow in 60-70 degrees of flexion and neutral forearm rotation, the examiner resists supination, while passively externally rotating the shoulder. A positive test is discomfort within the shoulder.
Diagnostic Accuracy: Sensitivity: .828; Specificity: .818; PPV: 92.3% ; NPV: 64.3%
Importance of Test: The mechanism of this test is to reproduce the position of the shoulder that stresses the superior labrum - shoulder abduction with external rotation. With the connection between the biceps tendon and superior labrum, contraction of the biceps can stress the labrum as well. The biceps' attachment to the radius aids in control of supination of the forearm. By resisting supination with passive external rotation of the shoulder, the superior labrum can be stressed due to the simulation of the "peel-back mechanism."
Note: these tests should only be performed by properly trained health care practitioners.
Test Position: Supine.
Performing the Test: The tested extremity is placed in 90 degrees of shoulder abduction with neutral rotation. With the elbow in 60-70 degrees of flexion and neutral forearm rotation, the examiner resists supination, while passively externally rotating the shoulder. A positive test is discomfort within the shoulder.
Diagnostic Accuracy: Sensitivity: .828; Specificity: .818; PPV: 92.3% ; NPV: 64.3%
Importance of Test: The mechanism of this test is to reproduce the position of the shoulder that stresses the superior labrum - shoulder abduction with external rotation. With the connection between the biceps tendon and superior labrum, contraction of the biceps can stress the labrum as well. The biceps' attachment to the radius aids in control of supination of the forearm. By resisting supination with passive external rotation of the shoulder, the superior labrum can be stressed due to the simulation of the "peel-back mechanism."
Note: these tests should only be performed by properly trained health care practitioners.
Reference:
Reinold, M. Two New Clinical Examination Tests to Detect a Superior Labral Tear/Slap Tear. Retrieved from: http://www.mikereinold.com/2008/11/two-new-clinical-examination-tests-to.html
Reinold, M. Two New Clinical Examination Tests to Detect a Superior Labral Tear/Slap Tear. Retrieved from: http://www.mikereinold.com/2008/11/two-new-clinical-examination-tests-to.html
