The Shoulder Exam
Examination of the shoulders is performed to identify and localise pathology affecting the bones, joints or soft tissues associated with the shoulder.
Lift Off Test
Subscapularis tendon rupture
Resisted internal rotation away from back; look for weakness
Empty Can Test
Supraspinatus tear / impingement
Internally rotate, abduct 90° + flex 30° with thumb pointing down. Resisted superior movement.
Apley Scratch Test
Rotator cuff tear
Reach over opposite shoulder, behind neck, behind back; look for limited ROM