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Evaluation of shoulder laxity
E G McFarland1, B M Torpey, L A Curl
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Sports Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.)
|October 1, 1996
Summary
Understanding shoulder laxity requires knowledge of glenohumeral joint anatomy. This review distinguishes normal laxity from pathological instability, crucial for accurate clinical assessment and diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Shoulder laxity is a normal aspect of glenohumeral joint motion.
- Excessive laxity can lead to shoulder instability, requiring clinical differentiation from normal motion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current techniques for evaluating shoulder laxity.
- To discuss the interpretation of examination findings in relation to normal and pathological shoulder laxity.
Main Methods:
- Review of current clinical examination techniques for shoulder laxity.
- Analysis of diagnostic criteria for distinguishing normal from pathological laxity.
Main Results:
- Various examination techniques assess anterior, posterior, inferior, and multidirectional shoulder laxity.
- Subluxation is recognized as a form of clinical or symptomatic instability.
Conclusions:
- Clinical assessment integrating history and physical examination is vital for differentiating normal from pathological shoulder laxity.
- Proper interpretation of laxity evaluations aids in diagnosing and managing shoulder instability.