EMPTY CAN (SUPRASPINATUS) TEST

​• Test positioning

The client stands with both shoulders abducted to 90-degrees, horizontally adducted 30-degrees, and internally rotated so the client's thumbs face the floor.

​• Action

The therapist resists the client's attempts to actively forward elevate both shoulders.

​• Positive finding

Involvement of the supraspinatus muscle and/or tendon is suspected with noted weakness and/or a report of pain.

​• Special considerations & comments

Weakness of the supraspinatus muscle may be a result of suprascapular nerve involvement. 

Reported pain may be indicative of tendinitis and/or impingement.

The Empty Can Test, developed by Dr. Frank Jobe, is based on his extensive research on shoulder mechanics and rotator cuff injuries. 

Contributions from Dr. James Andrews have also been influential in refining this assessment.