ROOS

TEST

​• ​Test positioning

The client sits or stands with both shoulders in 90-degrees of abduction and external rotation, and the elbows in 90-degrees of flexion.

​• ​Action

The client rapidly opens and closes both hands for 3 minutes.

​• ​Positive finding

The inability to maintain the test position diminished motor function of the hands, and/or loss of sensation in the upper extremities are indicative of thoracic outlet syndrome secondary to neurovascular compromise.

​• ​Special considerations & comments

​This test evaluates both neural and vascular structures and is considered to be the most accurate clinical test for assessing thoracic outlet syndrome.

A therapist may find muscle fatigue present when performing the Roos test for an otherwise healthy population and should therefore use caution when documenting such findings with potential pathologically involved clients.

Roos Test, also known as the Elevated Arm Stress Test, was developed by Dr. John Roos.

His pioneering work in thoracic outlet syndrome has been instrumental in creating and standardizing this assessment.