Which test is used to detect subacromial impingement by moving the arm into forward flexion with internal rotation?

Which test is used to detect subacromial impingement by moving the arm into forward flexion with internal rotation?

• A. Neer Test
• B. Hawkins-Kennedy test
• C. Empty Can Test
• D. Painful arc test

Answer: (B)

Subacromial impingement occurs when the structures under the acromion, especially the supraspinatus tendon, are compressed during shoulder elevation. The Hawkins-Kennedy maneuver targets this compression directly by moving the arm into forward flexion with internal rotation. In this test, the shoulder is flexed and the elbow is positioned so that the arm is brought into flexion while the arm is internally rotated, which narrows the subacromial space and pinches the tendons and bursa beneath the acromial arch. A positive finding is reproduced anterior shoulder pain, indicating impingement. This maneuver is particularly useful because it isolates the impingement mechanism linked to the subacromial space, more so than the other tests. Neer’s test also assesses impingement but uses a different motion path, often focusing on forward flexion with scapular stabilization. The empty can test assesses supraspinatus strength rather than impingement mechanics, and the painful arc test identifies pain during a mid-range of abduction without specifically testing the forward-flexion–internal-rotation pinch.

Subacromial impingement occurs when the structures under the acromion, especially the supraspinatus tendon, are compressed during shoulder elevation. The Hawkins-Kennedy maneuver targets this compression directly by moving the arm into forward flexion with internal rotation. In this test, the shoulder is flexed and the elbow is positioned so that the arm is brought into flexion while the arm is internally rotated, which narrows the subacromial space and pinches the tendons and bursa beneath the acromial arch. A positive finding is reproduced anterior shoulder pain, indicating impingement.

This maneuver is particularly useful because it isolates the impingement mechanism linked to the subacromial space, more so than the other tests. Neer’s test also assesses impingement but uses a different motion path, often focusing on forward flexion with scapular stabilization. The empty can test assesses supraspinatus strength rather than impingement mechanics, and the painful arc test identifies pain during a mid-range of abduction without specifically testing the forward-flexion–internal-rotation pinch.