Shoulder Quadrant Test

Other Names

• Shoulder Quadrant Test

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Purpose

• To evaluate the glenohumeral joint range of motion

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Description

• The quadrant position stresses the anterior and inferior capsule
• Combines external rotation, slight flexion and full abduction of the shoulder
• Examiners grips the patient’s shoulder to prevent shrugging
• Action is to hold the elbow and move the patient’s arm
  • into abduction, allowing the humerus to move from medial rotation (palm to chest) to lateral rotation (palm to ceiling).
• The point at which the humerus begins to change from medial to lateral rotation marks the beginning of the quadrant
• From this point horizontal extension is examined by pressing the elbow to the floor, releasing it and then moving into further abduction before pressing again.
• Findings
  • Both the quality and the range of motion are assessed
  • occurrence of muscle spasm
• Compared to the unaffected shoulder

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Pathology

• Adhesive Capsulitis

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Evidence

• Unknown

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See Also

• Shoulder Anatomy Main
• Physical Exam Shoulder
• Shoulder Pain Main

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