Execution
- 1Begin from the apprehension / crank position with the shoulder abducted and externally rotated.
- 2Apply a posteriorly directed force to the humeral head or proximal humerus.
- 3Maintain the posterior translation while assessing whether apprehension or pain decreases.
- 4Allow further external rotation only if the patient’s apprehension decreases.
- 5Release external rotation before releasing the posterior force to avoid provoking instability.
Positive outcome
The test is positive when apprehension or symptoms decrease during posterior relocation. If apprehension disappears, the finding supports anterior glenohumeral instability; if posterior pain decreases, Magee notes posterior internal impingement may be involved.
Studies
| Study | Reliability | Sn | Sp | LR+ | LR− |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speer et al. (1994) | NA | 81 | 92 | 10.1 | 0.21 |
| Lo et al. (2004) | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA |
CommentRelocation can reduce symptoms in anterior instability, posterior internal impingement, or secondary impingement related to pseudolaxity, so the symptom quality matters. Relief of apprehension is more instability-specific than relief of pain alone. It is strongest as part of the apprehension-relocation-surprise sequence.
High Clinical Value