Execution
- 1Position the patient supine near the edge of the examination table.
- 2Place the shoulder in extension over the edge of the table.
- 3Flex the elbow and supinate the forearm.
- 4Slowly extend the elbow while maintaining the shoulder and forearm position.
- 5Assess elbow extension range and end feel.
Positive outcome
The test is positive if full elbow extension does not occur and the end feel is muscular tissue stretch. Magee states that normal biceps flexibility should allow full extension with a bone-to-bone end feel.
CommentThis is a muscle-length test, not a rotator cuff diagnostic test. Shoulder position and neural mechanosensitivity can influence symptoms, so document whether limitation is true muscular stretch or pain/paresthesia. Use it to guide impairment-based treatment decisions.