STERNOCLAVICULAR (SC) JOINT STRESS TEST

​• ​Test positioning

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

The therapist stands in front of the client, placing one hand on the proximal end of the client's clavicle and the other hand on the spine of the scapula.

​• ​Action

The therapist applies gentle inferior and posterior pressure on the clavicle, noting any movement at the sternoclavicular joint.

​• ​Positive finding

Pain and/or movement of the clavicle indicates a sternoclavicular ligament sprain possibly involving the costoclavicular ligament.

​• ​Special considerations & comments

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

Caution should also be used if an injury to the trachea region is suspected in addition to sternoclavicular pathology.