The shoulder exam follows the classic orthopedic sequence of inspect, palpate, range of motion, strength, special tests, and always includes a neck screen. It’s tested heavily on the NPTE, PANCE and USMLE.
Drill the special tests with the free shoulder exam quiz.
Key takeaways
- Normal flexion and abduction are about 180°.
- Impingement: Neer and Hawkins-Kennedy tests.
- Rotator cuff: empty can (supraspinatus), lift-off or belly-press (subscapularis), drop arm (tear).
- Instability: apprehension and relocation tests.
USA Shoulder Exam: Quick Facts
- Sequence
- Inspect → palpate → ROM → strength → special tests
- Normal flexion
- ~180°
- Normal ER
- ~90°
- Always check
- The cervical spine
Shoulder Special Tests
| Test | Suggests |
|---|---|
| Neer / Hawkins-Kennedy | Subacromial impingement |
| Empty can (Jobe) | Supraspinatus pathology |
| Lift-off / belly-press | Subscapularis pathology |
| Drop arm | Full-thickness rotator cuff tear |
| Apprehension / relocation | Anterior instability |
| Cross-body adduction | AC joint pathology |
| Speed’s / Yergason’s | Biceps tendon pathology |
| O’Brien (active compression) | SLAP (labral) tear or AC joint |
Free practice test
Ready to test yourself?
Choose your test length, practice with instant feedback or take it exam-style, and get your score with an explanation for every answer.
Go to the USA Shoulder Exam practice test →USA Shoulder Exam FAQs
What are the steps of a shoulder exam?
Inspection, palpation, active and passive range of motion, strength testing, special tests and a neck exam.
Full answer →Which test checks for a rotator cuff tear?
The drop arm test suggests a full-thickness tear. Weakness on empty can or external rotation also points to cuff pathology.
Full answer →What does a painful arc mean?
Pain between about 60° and 120° of abduction usually suggests subacromial impingement.
Full answer →Official sources
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Coverage, prices and requirements change and vary by provider and location. Confirm details with your provider, insurer or the agency listed in the sources. Read our editorial policy.