Which test assesses rotator cuff integrity by measuring deltoid compensation?

Which test assesses rotator cuff integrity by measuring deltoid compensation?

• A. Empty can test
• B. Neer test
• C. Drop arm test
• D. Hawkins-Kennedy test

Answer: (C)

When the rotator cuff is torn, especially the supraspinatus, the deltoid may overtake the movement and control of the arm. The drop arm test specifically exploits this by having the arm elevated to about 90 degrees in the plane of the scapula and then asking the patient to hold it there or to lower it slowly. If the arm cannot be controlled and suddenly drops or the patient cannot maintain that position, it indicates a rotator cuff tear with supraspinatus involvement. This makes it the best choice for assessing rotator cuff integrity via deltoid compensation. The other tests are more about impingement (Neer and Hawkins-Kennedy) or direct strength testing of the supraspinatus (empty can). They don’t specifically measure deltoid compensation during a controlled lowering from a raised position, which is why the drop arm test is the appropriate one here.

When the rotator cuff is torn, especially the supraspinatus, the deltoid may overtake the movement and control of the arm. The drop arm test specifically exploits this by having the arm elevated to about 90 degrees in the plane of the scapula and then asking the patient to hold it there or to lower it slowly. If the arm cannot be controlled and suddenly drops or the patient cannot maintain that position, it indicates a rotator cuff tear with supraspinatus involvement. This makes it the best choice for assessing rotator cuff integrity via deltoid compensation.

The other tests are more about impingement (Neer and Hawkins-Kennedy) or direct strength testing of the supraspinatus (empty can). They don’t specifically measure deltoid compensation during a controlled lowering from a raised position, which is why the drop arm test is the appropriate one here.