Question

Which provocative shoulder test is MOST appropriate to evaluation for shoulder impingement?

1) Hawkins-Kennedy test
2) Empty can test
3) Codman arm drop
4) Crank test

Answer 1

The Hawkins-Kennedy test is the most suitable for evaluating shoulder impingement, involving flexion and internal rotation of the shoulder to provoke symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate provocative shoulder test to evaluate for shoulder impingement is the Hawkins-Kennedy test. This test is performed by flexing the patient’s shoulder and elbow to 90 degrees, and then forcibly internally rotating the shoulder. The test is considered positive for impingement if pain is elicited during this motion. It targets the subacromial space where impingement of tendons commonly occurs.

The other tests mentioned have different purposes: The Empty can test is used to assess supraspinatus strength and may indicate a rotator cuff tear, the Codman arm drop is also used to assess rotator cuff integrity but more specifically the teres minor and infraspinatus muscles, while the Crank test is typically used to evaluate labral tears.