Execution
- 1Position the patient standing with the arm by the side or slightly flexed depending on the protocol.
- 2Ask the patient to move the arm into extension against resistance.
- 3Apply an anteriorly directed resistance at the distal arm or elbow.
- 4Keep the trunk still and prevents scapular substitution.
- 5Record whether pain is localized to the AC joint.
Positive outcome
Localized pain over the acromioclavicular joint during resisted extension is positive. General posterior shoulder or muscular pain should not be scored as AC-positive.
Studies
| Study | Reliability | Sn | Sp | LR+ | LR− |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chronopoulos et al. (2004) | NA | 72 | 85 | 4.8 | 0.33 |
CommentThis test is less commonly taught than cross-body adduction or O’Brien, but it is part of the Chronopoulos AC cluster. It should be scored only when symptoms are local to the AC joint. The evidence is best for chronic isolated AC lesions, not acute high-grade separations.
Moderate Clinical Value