Identifying Rotator Cuff Tears

Introduction

• Speaker: Tim Fraticelli, a physical therapist with PT Progress.
• Purpose: To help determine if you have a rotator cuff tear using five physical therapy tests.
• Focus: Identifying rotator cuff tears; exercises for non-surgical rehab will be covered in a subsequent video.

Rotator Cuff Tear Tests

1. Empty Can Test

• Target Muscle: Supraspinatus muscle.
• Steps:
  • Extend arm fully and raise to 90 degrees.
  • Hold arm slightly out from body.
  • Turn hand downward (like emptying a can).
  • Apply pressure to arm; resist the motion.
• Positive Sign: Pain or weakness on one side indicates potential supraspinatus tendon compromise or tear.

2. Drop Arm Test

• Purpose: Tests control of arm lowering.
• Steps:
  • Raise arm overhead using the other arm to assist.
  • Lower arm to the side without assistance.
• Positive Sign: Inability to control motion or sudden drop suggests a severe strain or possible tear, especially at the supraspinatus tendon.

3. Lag Sign

• Target Muscles: Supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and possibly teres minor tendons.
• Steps:
  • Bend elbow to 90 degrees.
  • Position arm away from body into external rotation.
  • Release support and try to maintain position.
• Positive Sign: Arm dropping indicates potential tendon compromise or tear.

4. Infraspinatus Test

• Target Muscle: Infraspinatus muscle.
• Steps:
  • Hold arm at your side.
  • Apply inward pressure with opposite arm.
• Positive Sign: Pain, weakness, or inability to hold position suggests infraspinatus compromise or tear.

5. Lift Off Test

• Target Muscle: Subscapularis muscle.
• Steps:
  • Position arm behind back.
  • Lift arm off the back.
• Positive Sign: Pain or inability to perform movement indicates subscapularis compromise or tear.

Conclusion

• Review: Empty Can Test, Drop Arm Test, Lag Sign, Infraspinatus Test, Lift Off Test.
• Further Learning: Watch additional videos for more on rotator cuff tears and exercises.
• Encouragement: Continue making progress towards your goals.