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Shoulder Orthopaedic Test: Empty Can Test

orthopaedic tests Jun 09, 2023
 

The Empty Can Test is a physical examination technique used to assess the function of the supraspinatus muscle and supraspinatus tendon in the shoulder. It is primarily used to identify lesions or tears in these structures.

Procedure:

  1. Ask the patient to stand with their arms at their sides.
  2. Instruct the patient to abduct their arm to 90 degrees and forward flex it to 30 degrees, with their thumbs pointing down (similar to emptying a can).
  3. Stand behind the patient and place one hand on their affected arm, just above the wrist, to stabilize it.
  4. With the other hand, place downward pressure on the patient's arm, while the patient resists.
  5. Observe the patient for pain or weakness in the supraspinatus muscle or tendon.
  6. Repeat the test on the unaffected arm for comparison.
  7. Note any pain or weakness experienced by the patient during the test.
  8. Compare the results of the test to other clinical tests and imaging studies to diagnose rotator cuff injuries or impingement.

 

References:

  1. Jobe FW, Jobe CM. Painful athletic injuries of the shoulder. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1983;(173):117-124. doi: 10.1097/00003086-198306000-00018.
  2. Park HB, Yokota A, Gill HS, El Rassi G, McFarland EG. Diagnostic accuracy of clinical tests for the different degrees of subacromial impingement syndrome. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2005;87(7):1446-1455. doi: 10.2106/JBJS.D.02035.
  3. 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;42(2):80-92. doi: 10.1136/bjsm.2007.038406.
  4. Seida JC, LeBlanc C, Schouten JR, Mousavi SS, Hartling L, Vandermeer B, Tjosvold L, Sheps DM. Systematic review: nonoperative and operative treatments for rotator cuff tears. Ann Intern Med. 2010;153(4):246-255. doi: 10.7326/0003-4819-153-4-201008170-00270.

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