Execution
- 1Position the patient supine with the test shoulder abducted to approximately 150°.
- 2Keep the elbow extended and forearm supinated.
- 3Stabilize the humerus to prevent shoulder rotation.
- 4Pronate the forearm while maintaining the shoulder and humeral position.
- 5Ask whether deep anterior or posterior shoulder pain is reproduced.
Positive outcome
Deep shoulder pain anteriorly or posteriorly during forearm pronation is positive for a SLAP lesion. The test mimics the backstroke swimmer’s hand-entry position according to Magee.
Studies
| Study | Reliability | Sn | Sp | LR+ | LR− |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schlechter et al. (2009) | NA | 53 | 94 | 8.83 | 0.50 |
CommentThe passive distraction test is one of the more specific SLAP tests in systematic-review summaries, but sensitivity is modest. A negative result does not exclude SLAP. It is best used when the history involves overhead / throwing or swimming-type peel-back mechanisms.
Moderate Clinical Value