Painful Arc Test

Purpose

Screen for Painful Arc findings.

Execution

1. 1Stand with arms relaxed at sides
2. 2Slowly abduct the arm through the full range
3. 3Note the range where pain appears or resolves
4. 4Repeat on the opposite side
5. 5Document the painful arc range

Key Observations

• Pain in the mid-range of abduction
• Subacromial structures are compressed

Views

• frontal

Protocol

1. 1Observe from: frontal.
2. 2Standardize start position and instructions.
3. 3Perform 2-3 trials per side when applicable.
4. 4Record key observations and any positive indicators.
5. 5Compare left vs right when applicable.

Reference

David J. Magee