Apprehension test for shoulder dislocation

 

Tests for chronic shoulder dislocation                                                       

Similar to the patellar apprehension test

Designed to place the humeral head in a position of imminent subluxation or dislocation

 

http://www.maitrise-orthop.com/corpusmaitri/orthopaedic/112_kelly/kelly-fig11.jpg

 

ABduct and externally rotate arm to a position where the shoulder may dislocate

If the shoulder is about to dislocate, the patient will experience apprehension due to the familiar pattern of dislocation, report the laxity and resist further motion.