Article

Rotator cuff tears are the leading cause of shoulder pain and shoulder-related
disability and account for 4.5 million physician visits in the United States
annually. A careful history and structured physical examination are often
sufficient for diagnosing rotator cuff disorders. We are not aware of a clinical
review article that presents a structured physical examination protocol of the
rotator cuff for the interested clinician. To fill this void, we present a
physical examination protocol developed on the basis of review of prior
literature and our clinical experience from dedicated shoulder practices. Our
protocol includes range of motion testing by using a goniometer, strength testing
by using a dynamometer, and select special tests.
Among the many tests for
rotator cuff disorders that have been described, we chose ones that have been
more thoroughly assessed for sensitivity and specificity.
This protocol can be
used to isolate the specific rotator cuff tendon involved.
The protocol can
typically be completed in 15 minutes. We also discuss the clinical implications
and limitations of the physical examination maneuvers described in our protocol.
This protocol is thorough yet time efficient for a busy clinical practice. It is
useful in the diagnosis of rotator cuff tears, impingement syndrome, and biceps
pathology.
CI - Copyright (c) 2013 American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS