Execution
- 1Position the patient supine beside the tested shoulder.
- 2Passively abduct the shoulder between approximately 20° and 90° with the elbow flexed to 90°.
- 3Apply axial compression through the long axis of the humerus by pushing through the elbow.
- 4Passively rotate the humerus back and forth in small and large arcs to trap the labrum.
- 5Repeat at different abduction angles if needed to stress different labral regions.
Positive outcome
Pain, clicking, catching, or a catching sensation during compressed rotation is positive for a labral tear. The location and angle of symptoms may help guide which labral region is involved.
Studies
| Study | Reliability | Sn | Sp | LR+ | LR− |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guanche & Jones (2003) | NA | 43 | 89 | 3.91 | 0.64 |
CommentCompression-rotation may have one of the better single-test DORs among SLAP / labral tests, but the overall likelihood shift is still modest. The test is not SLAP-specific and may reproduce symptoms from other labral regions. Interpret with history and other labral / biceps findings.
Moderate Clinical Value