Shoulder Tests for Shoulder Pain

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If you’re experiencing shoulder pain, this blog will guide you through simple shoulder tests to identify potential musculoskeletal issues. Note that various conditions, even unrelated to the shoulder, can cause pain, so it’s essential to rule out medical concerns. If you experience pain without movement, consult a medical professional.

Common Musculoskeletal Conditions:

1. Rotator Cuff Related Pain:

Characterized by pain on the side of the shoulder, possibly radiating to the elbow.
Look for a painful arc, especially around 90 degrees of abduction.
Tests like empty cans, full cans, Neers, and Hawkins Kennedy may be helpful.
Pain during resisted flexion, abduction, and external rotation is a clear indicator.

2. AC Joint Pain:

Located higher on the shoulder around the AC joint.
Pain worsens as the arm approaches the ear, especially with horizontal adduction.
Perform a Scarff test by applying pressure during horizontal adduction.
Direct pain on pressing the AC joint area is a significant sign.

3. Frozen Shoulder:

Characterized by global shoulder restriction and intense pain.
Pain can extend from the shoulder to the elbow.
Limited range and pain persist during passive and active movements.
The capsular pattern includes reduced external rotation, abduction, and internal rotation.
More common in the 40-60 age range, often associated with diabetes and thyroid issues.

4. Shoulder Instability:

Ranges from a feeling of instability to severe dislocation/subluxation.
Clicking in the shoulder may indicate instability.
The apprehension test involves abducting and externally rotating the arm.
Seek professional evaluation for accurate diagnosis.

Seeking Further Assistance:

If your symptoms don’t align with the mentioned conditions, consult a professional.
- Shoulder tests are also shown in the video at the bottom of this blog
Symptoms referring from the neck, with pain, pins and needles, or numbness, require attention.
If you are struggling with shoulder pain and need a consultation, you could find us in Nottingham. You could give us a call on 0115 901 7867 or use our online booking system.
Check out the video below for further help: