Short answer
The drop arm test suggests a full-thickness tear. Weakness on empty can or external rotation also points to cuff pathology.
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 |
USA Shoulder Exam: Quick Facts
- Sequence
- Inspect → palpate → ROM → strength → special tests
- Normal flexion
- ~180°
- Normal ER
- ~90°
- Always check
- The cervical spine
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