Execution
- 1Position the patient prone or sitting.
- 2Place the test arm behind the body so the hand rests toward the opposite back pocket.
- 3Place the index finger along and under the medial border of the scapula.
- 4Ask the patient to push the shoulder slightly forward against resistance to relax the trapezius.
- 5Ask the patient to raise the forearm and hand away from the body while monitoring scapular movement.
Positive outcome
If the rhomboids are functioning normally, the examiner's fingers are pushed away from under the scapula. Failure to push the fingers away, or medial border winging during the movement, suggests rhomboid weakness.
Studies
| Study | Reliability | Sn | Sp | LR+ | LR− |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brunnstrom (1941) | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA |
CommentThis is a scapular stabilizer strength test rather than a diagnostic test for rotator cuff tear. Magee also notes that rhomboid and levator scapulae strength may be tested by placing the hands on the hips and pushing the elbows anteriorly. Findings should be interpreted with trapezius and serratus anterior testing.