shoulder abduction relief test

E Authors

3 min read

·

15-10-2024

36

0

Share

Shoulder Abduction Relief Test: A Simple Test for Diagnosing Shoulder Pain

Experiencing shoulder pain? It can be frustrating and debilitating, making simple tasks like reaching for a shelf or carrying groceries feel impossible. One way to help pinpoint the source of your pain is the shoulder abduction relief test. This simple test can help determine if your pain is stemming from a subacromial impingement, a common condition affecting the shoulder joint.

What is Shoulder Abduction Relief Test?

The shoulder abduction relief test, also known as the empty can test, is a physical exam technique used to assess the possibility of subacromial impingement. It involves a series of movements that help identify if pain is relieved by lifting the arm away from the body (abduction).

How is the Test Performed?

The test is performed by a healthcare professional, typically a physical therapist or doctor. Here's how it works:

1. Starting Position: The patient stands or sits with their arm at their side. The healthcare professional will gently rotate the patient's arm so the palm is facing the floor (internal rotation).

2. Abduction: The patient is asked to raise their arm to a 90-degree angle, keeping their elbow straight and palm facing down.

3. Observation: The healthcare professional observes the patient's reaction to this movement. They will note the presence or absence of pain, the intensity of the pain, and whether there is any clicking or catching sensation.

4. Relief: The patient is then asked to slightly rotate their arm so that their palm is facing up (external rotation) while maintaining the arm in the 90-degree abduction position.

5. Observation: The healthcare professional will observe if the pain decreases or disappears with this external rotation.

What does the Result Tell Us?

• Positive Test: If the pain is relieved with external rotation (palm facing up), this suggests that the pain may be due to subacromial impingement. This is because external rotation helps to move the tendons and bursa away from the bony structures, relieving pressure in the shoulder joint.

• Negative Test: If the pain persists or even worsens with external rotation, it suggests that the pain may be caused by other factors, such as a rotator cuff tear, arthritis, or nerve compression.

Why is This Test Important?

The shoulder abduction relief test is a valuable tool in helping to diagnose subacromial impingement, which is a common cause of shoulder pain. The test helps to determine if the pain is related to compression of the tendons and bursa in the shoulder joint. Early diagnosis and treatment of subacromial impingement are important to prevent further damage and improve long-term outcomes.

Subacromial Impingement: A Closer Look

Subacromial impingement occurs when the soft tissues, such as the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles and the bursa, become compressed between the acromion bone (part of the shoulder blade) and the humerus (upper arm bone). This compression can cause pain, inflammation, and eventually lead to tears in the rotator cuff.

Other Considerations:

It's important to remember that the shoulder abduction relief test is not a definitive diagnostic tool. A thorough medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies are essential to obtain a complete diagnosis.

References:

• Clinical diagnosis and treatment of subacromial impingement: an evidence-based approach. A.A. Ludewig, P.G. Glaister - Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research, 2013

• The efficacy of clinical tests used to assess shoulder pain: a systematic review with meta-analysis. P.D. Falla, L.J. Bishop, J.S. Wright, S.R. Canning, J.A. Lewis, A.D. Cook - Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 2013

Beyond the Test: What Else Can Help?

While the shoulder abduction relief test can be a helpful tool, it's just one piece of the puzzle. Understanding the causes of subacromial impingement can be crucial for effective treatment.

Here are some common contributing factors:

• Overuse or repetitive motions: Activities like throwing, swimming, or even prolonged computer use can stress the shoulder joint.
• Poor posture: Slouching or hunching over can put unnecessary strain on the shoulder.
• Muscle weakness or imbalance: Weak rotator cuff muscles can increase the risk of impingement.
• Anatomical factors: Some people have a narrower space between the acromion and humerus, making them more prone to impingement.

Additional Steps You Can Take:

• Talk to a healthcare professional: A physical therapist or doctor can offer an accurate diagnosis and recommend the most effective treatment options.
• Physical therapy: Exercises and stretches specifically designed to strengthen and improve the flexibility of the shoulder joint can help alleviate pain and prevent future problems.
• Lifestyle modifications: Adjusting activities that put excessive stress on the shoulder and adopting good posture can help minimize pain.
• Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription medications can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary pain relief.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address more severe cases of subacromial impingement.

Final Thoughts:

The shoulder abduction relief test can be a useful tool for diagnosing shoulder pain, particularly when considering subacromial impingement. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.