Special Tests for Rotator Cuff Pathology Diagnosis (Physical Therapy)

By dpope2020

June 7, 2023

fitness, fitness pain free, full thickness, infraspinatus, orthopedic special tests, orthopedic surgery, partial thickness, physical therapist, physical therapy, physical therapy special tests, rotator cuff, rotator cuff injury, rotator cuff repair, rotator cuff surgery, rotator cuff tear, shoulder impingement, shoulder injury, Shoulder Pain, shoulder rehab, shoulder surgery, special tests for rotator cuff pathology, strength, subscapularis, supraspinatus, torn rotator cuff

Special Tests for Rotator Cuff Pathology Diagnosis (Physical Therapy)

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In today's episode we go over Special Tests for Rotator Cuff Pathology Diagnosis (Physical Therapy): 

Welcome, coaches and clinicians,

Today, we delve into the fascinating world of accurately identifying rotator cuff pathology and uncovering the most effective special tests at our disposal. Brace yourselves for an illuminating journey that will empower you with the knowledge and skills to conquer the challenge of diagnosing rotator cuff pathologies with confidence. (Can you tell I use artificial intelligence to create the outline for my blog posts?)

As practitioners, we are no strangers to rotator cuff injuries. These intricate structures, consisting of four critical tendons, play a pivotal role in stabilizing and facilitating the complex movements of the shoulder joint. However, pinpointing the precise source of pain or dysfunction within the rotator cuff can often feel like navigating a labyrinth.

Yet fear not, for armed with the right information, clinical expertise, and a refined arsenal of special tests, we can unravel the mystery that shrouds rotator cuff pathologies. By delving into the world of evidence-based practice and honing our assessment skills, we can demystify the diagnostic process and provide our patients with the accurate diagnoses they deserve.

But what sets us apart as astute clinicians is our ability to employ specialized tests, tailored to elicit the telltale signs of rotator cuff pathologies. Throughout this video, we will uncover a treasure trove of tried and tested special tests that have stood the test of time in clinical practice. From the classic Neer's test to the Hawkins Kennedy test, we will explore the pearls and pitfalls of each, empowering you to make accurate and informed decisions for your patients.

So gather your curiosity, sharpen your critical thinking, and brace yourselves for an immersive learning experience that will elevate your diagnostic prowess. Together, we will embark on a quest to conquer the challenge of diagnosing rotator cuff pathology, armed with the best special tests and a relentless pursuit of excellence.  Check out the video below to see what I'm talking about:

Rotator Cuff Expert Status,

- Dan Pope DPT,OCS,CSCS

Show Notes / Relevant Articles:

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Thank you!

Dan Pope DPT, OCS, CSCS

References: 

  1. Hegedus EJ, Goode AP, Cook CE, Michener L, Myer CA, Myer DM, Wright AA. Which physical examination tests provide clinicians with the most value when examining the shoulder? Update of a systematic review with meta-analysis of individual tests. Br J Sports Med. 2012 Nov;46(14):964-78. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2012-091066. Epub 2012 Jul 7. PMID: 22773322.
  2. Lädermann A, Collin P, Zbinden O, Meynard T, Saffarini M, Chiu JC. Diagnostic Accuracy of Clinical Tests for Subscapularis Tears: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Orthop J Sports Med. 2021 Sep 27;9(9):23259671211042011. doi: 10.1177/23259671211042011. PMID: 35146034; PMCID: PMC8822023.
  3. Longo UG, Berton A, Ahrens PM, Maffulli N, Denaro V. Clinical tests for the diagnosis of rotator cuff disease. Sports Med Arthrosc Rev. 2011 Sep;19(3):266-78. doi: 10.1097/JSA.0b013e3182250c8b. PMID: 21822110.
  4. Jain NB, Luz J, Higgins LD, Dong Y, Warner JJ, Matzkin E, Katz JN. The Diagnostic Accuracy of Special Tests for Rotator Cuff Tear: The ROW Cohort Study. Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2017 Mar;96(3):176-183. doi: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000000566. PMID: 27386812; PMCID: PMC5218987.
  5. Hughes PC, Taylor NF, Green RA. Most clinical tests cannot accurately diagnose rotator cuff pathology: a systematic review. Aust J Physiother. 2008;54(3):159-70. doi: 10.1016/s0004-9514(08)70022-9. PMID: 18721119.
  6. Hegedus EJ, Goode AP, Cook CE, Michener L, Myer CA, Myer DM, Wright AA. Which physical examination tests provide clinicians with the most value when examining the shoulder? Update of a systematic review with meta-analysis of individual tests. Br J Sports Med. 2012 Nov;46(14):964-78. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2012-091066. Epub 2012 Jul 7. PMID: 22773322.