Shoulder Orthopaedic Test: Full Can Test

The Full Can Test is another clinical test that is commonly used to assess the function of the supraspinatus muscle. Here is a step-by-step procedure for performing the Full Can Test:

1. Ask the patient to stand or sit upright, with the arms at the sides.
2. Instruct the patient to elevate both arms to shoulder height with the palms facing down, as if pouring out a can.
3. Ask the patient to hold this position while you provide resistance to the arms by pressing down on the forearms.
4. Observe the strength and control of the shoulder muscles during the test.
5. Repeat the test with the palms facing up (thumbs pointing to the ceiling), as if holding a tray.
6. Observe the strength and control of the shoulder muscles during this variation of the test.

During the Full Can Test, the supraspinatus muscle is responsible for initiating and maintaining the shoulder abduction, while the other rotator cuff muscles and deltoid muscles assist in the movement.

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.