Examination of the shoulder complex

This article presents a protocol for the examination of the shoulder complex. The examination is divided into subjective and objective components. A primary focus of this article is on the functional portion of the objective examination and its interpretation. The functional examination consists of active and passive range-of-motion tests, accessory mobility tests, resisted tests, and palpation. This approach enables the examiner to classify movement disorders of the shoulder complex into dysfunctions of the noncontractile tissues and of the contractile tissues. Factors that enable the examiner to determine the severity of a pathological condition or to identify stages of the healing process are discussed. This information will assist the physical therapist in establishing treatment goals and in selecting appropriate strategies of therapeutic intervention.