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Apleys Scratch Test

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Illustration of Apley's Scratch Test[1]
C, D: Demonstration of normal Apley's Scratch Test[2]
Apley's scratch test[3]
  • Apleys Scratch Test
  • Apley's Scratch Test
  • Dawbarn’s Test
  • Dawburn's Test

Purpose

  • Evaluate shoulder range of motion
  • Combines the movements:
    • Medial rotation with extension & adduction
    • Lateral rotation with flexion & abduction

Description

  • Ask the patient to bring their hands together on the back
    • One hand comes over the shoulder
    • One hand comes below behind the back
  • Then repeat the test with the arms reversed
  • Positive Test
    • Limited range of motion compared to the unaffected limb
    • Limited range of motion bilaterally

Pathology

Evidence

  • Unknown

See Also

References

  1. ↑ Almoallim, Hani, et al. "Approach to Musculoskeletal Examination." Skills in Rheumatology (2021): 17-65.
  2. ↑ Liu, Shibo, et al. "Bone cemented K-wire fixation versus elastic stable intramedullary nailing fixation of paediatric proximal humerus fractures: A prospective cohort study." Medicine 102.6 (2023): e32959.
  3. ↑ Image courtesy of clinicalgate.com
Created by:
John Kiel on 7 August 2024 14:34:06
Authors:
Last edited:
27 October 2025 23:25:44
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