Overview
This note describes the procedure and purpose of a clinical test to assess for rupture of the bicipital tendon, specifically the long head of the biceps.
Test Purpose and Anatomy
- The test evaluates for rupture of the long head of the biceps tendon.
- The long head of the biceps passes through the bicipital groove, where rupture can occur.
Test Procedure
- The patient’s elbow is positioned at 90 degrees.
- The patient is asked to resist both supination and external rotation at the same time.
- The examiner places one hand over the distal end of the patient’s forearm.
- The examiner palpates in the bicipital groove to assess tendon integrity during resistance.
Interpretation
- If the tendon is intact, resistance is maintained with no abnormal movement.
- If the tendon is ruptured, subluxation (displacement) of the tendon may be observed out of the groove.