ACROMIOCLAVICULAR (AC) JOINT DISTRACTION

​• ​Test positioning

The client sits with the involved arm relaxed at the side and the elbow flexed to 90-degrees.

The therapist stands on the involved side and with one hand holds the client's arm just above the elbow crease.

The therapist's other hand is placed over the involved acromioclavicular joint.

​• ​Action

The therapist applies gentle downward pressure on the arm, noting any movement at the acromioclavicular joint.

​• ​Positive finding

Pain and/or movement of the scapula inferior to the clavicle is positive indicating acromioclavicular and/or coracoclavicular ligament sprains.

​• ​Special considerations & comments

This test should not be performed if any obvious deformity exists.

The Acromioclavicular Joint Distraction Test incorporates principles from Dr. James Cyriax, a pioneer in orthopedic medicine, and Dr. John C. Kennedy, whose work on joint dysfunction has been influential in manual therapy.