In assessing glenohumeral joint stability, which test is often used to evaluate anterior stability?

In assessing glenohumeral joint stability, which test is often used to evaluate anterior stability?

• A. Apprehension test
• B. Neer test
• C. Hawkins-Kennedy test
• D. Load and shift test

Answer: (A)

The Apprehension test is a widely recognized assessment tool specifically designed to evaluate anterior stability of the glenohumeral joint. During this test, the patient is placed in a supine position, and the clinician abducts the arm to 90 degrees while externally rotating the shoulder. If the patient exhibits signs of apprehension or discomfort, it suggests that there may be instability or potential dislocation of the shoulder, specifically in the anterior direction. This test is crucial for identifying individuals at risk for anterior shoulder instability, particularly in those with a history of dislocations or subluxations. It effectively highlights the joint's vulnerability, helping guide further management. The other tests listed serve different purposes and target other aspects of shoulder function or pathology. The Neer and Hawkins-Kennedy tests are primarily used to assess impingement and rotator cuff disorders, rather than joint stability. The Load and Shift test can also be utilized to evaluate stability but is more focused on assessing multidirectional instability of the glenohumeral joint, rather than specifically anterior stability.

The Apprehension test is a widely recognized assessment tool specifically designed to evaluate anterior stability of the glenohumeral joint. During this test, the patient is placed in a supine position, and the clinician abducts the arm to 90 degrees while externally rotating the shoulder. If the patient exhibits signs of apprehension or discomfort, it suggests that there may be instability or potential dislocation of the shoulder, specifically in the anterior direction.

This test is crucial for identifying individuals at risk for anterior shoulder instability, particularly in those with a history of dislocations or subluxations. It effectively highlights the joint's vulnerability, helping guide further management.

The other tests listed serve different purposes and target other aspects of shoulder function or pathology. The Neer and Hawkins-Kennedy tests are primarily used to assess impingement and rotator cuff disorders, rather than joint stability. The Load and Shift test can also be utilized to evaluate stability but is more focused on assessing multidirectional instability of the glenohumeral joint, rather than specifically anterior stability.