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.

CONSIDERATIONS & COMMENTS

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