Execution
- 1Position the patient sitting.
- 2Cup one hand over the clavicle and the other over the spine of the scapula / deltoid region.
- 3Place the heels of the hands around the AC joint region.
- 4Squeeze the heels of the hands together to shear / compress the AC joint.
- 5Note pain and abnormal AC joint movement.
Positive outcome
Pain at the AC joint with abnormal movement is positive for acromioclavicular joint pathology. Pain without abnormal movement is less specific and should be compared with the opposite side.
CommentMagee gives a clear procedure for AC shear, but diagnostic-accuracy reporting is less prominent than for cross-body adduction, O’Brien, Paxinos, and resisted extension. It is useful when AC sprain or instability is suspected clinically. Consider imaging if deformity or high-grade separation is present.
Low Clinical Value