POSTERIOR DRAWER TEST

TEST POSITIONING

The client lies supine.

The therapist stands next to the involved shoulder, and holds the client's arm at the elbow, passively abducts the shoulder to 90-degrees, and horizontally flexes the shoulder 20 to 30-degrees.

The client's elbow is flexed in a relaxed position.

The therapist stabilizes the scapula by placing the other hand posterior to the shoulder joint capsule with the thumb over the coracoid process.

ACTION

While stabilizing the scapula, the therapist applies downward pressure, pushing the humeral head posteriorly.

The therapist notes any posterior movement of the humeral head.

POSITIVE FINDING

Increased posterior instability of the humeral head relative to the scapula/glenoid fossa may be indicative of posterior instability.

The client may exhibit apprehension if the test is positive.

CONSIDERATIONS & COMMENTS

​A bilateral comparison should be used for a more accurate assessment.