external rotators test

Indications

• test for rotator cuff tear (external rotators, infraspinatus & teres minor)

Procedure

• with the patient standing, arm at side, elbows flexed 90 degrees forearm up, wrist neutral, push distal forearm inwardly towards the abdomen while the patient tries to rotate arm outward.

Interpretation

• weakness, not pain is a positive sign

More general terms

• physical examination of the shoulder

Additional terms

• rotator cuff; musculotendinous cuff
• shoulder pain