ACROMIOCLAVICULAR (AC) SHEAR TEST

​• ​Test positioning

The patient sits with the involved arm relaxed at the side.

The therapist stands on the involved side, placing one hand on the patient's clavicle and the other hand on the spine of the scapula.

​• ​Action

The therapist gently squeezes the hands together, noting any movement at the acromioclavicular joint.

​• ​Positive finding

Pain and/or movement of the clavicle is a positive indication of an acromioclavicular and/or coracoclavicular ligament sprain.

​• ​Special considerations & comments

This test should not be performed if there is an obvious acromioclavicular joint deformity.

The Acromioclavicular Shear Test is based on the work of Dr. James Cyriax and Dr. John C. Kennedy, who have made significant contributions to the understanding and assessment of joint function and pathology.