Careful examination of the shoulder is an essential component in forming a diagnosis of problems in this area. A number of tests have been described that are claimed to improve diagnostic accuracy by specifically examining one component of the shoulder complex. Many of these tests are eponymous, and there is confusion about not only how to perform them but also what conclusion to draw from the results. This article attempts to clarify the tests used to examine the rotator cuff by presenting them as described by the original authors with the additional aim of providing a source for those wishing to refresh their knowledge without the need to refer to the original source material.
This is the second of a two-part article describing the various tests that have been used to examine the shoulder to find and treat problems in that area. Part I of this article (January/February 2003, pages 154-160) focused on tests used to examine rotator cuff abnormalities. This article attempts to clarify the tests of laxity, instability, and the superior labral anterior and posterior (SLAP) lesions by presenting them as described by the original authors, with the additional aim of providing a source for those wishing to refresh their knowledge without the need to refer to the original source material.
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