Shoulder Orthopaedic Test: Codman's Test

Codman's Test, also known as the Drop Arm Test, is a physical examination maneuver used to assess a suspected rotator cuff tear. It is used to evaluate the integrity of the supraspinatus tendon and muscle, which is commonly injured in rotator cuff tears.

Here are the steps to perform the Codman's Test:

1. Ask the patient to stand or sit upright with their arms relaxed by their sides.
2. Passively raise the patient's affected arm to 90 degrees of abduction.
3. Instruct the patient to maintain the arm in the abducted position while you release your support.
4. Observe the patient to see if they can maintain the arm in the abducted position.
5. Instruct the patient to slowly lower the arm back to the side.
6. Observe the patient for any signs of pain, weakness, or inability to control the descent of the arm.

If the patient is unable to maintain the arm in the abducted position or experiences sudden pain during the lowering phase, it suggests a rotator cuff tear.

References:

• Codman, EA. The Shoulder: Rupture of the Supraspinatus Tendon and Other Lesions In or About the Subacromial Bursa. Boston Medical Library, 1934.
• Hegedus EJ, Goode A, Campbell S, et al. Physical examination tests of the shoulder: a systematic review with meta-analysis of individual tests. Br J Sports Med. 2008 Sep;42(9):80-92. doi: 10.1136/bjsm.2008.046300.
• Kuhn JE, Plancher KD, Hawkins RJ. Scoring systems for evaluation of the shoulder. In: The Shoulder. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2009:51-59.
• Magee DJ. Orthopedic Physical Assessment. 6th ed. St. Louis, Mo.: Saunders/Elsevier, 2014.