Hornblower's Sign
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Purpose[edit | edit source]
This test is also known as the Patte's Test. [1]
It is used to test for the strength of the teres minor. Weakness or pain can indicate a tear. [1]
Technique[edit | edit source]
- The patient is in a standing position. [1]
- The patient's arm is passively elevated to 90 degrees in the scapular plane, by the examiner
- The examiner passively flexes the elbow to 90 degrees
- The patient is asked to actively externally rotate the shoulder against the examiner's resistance
Another method for performing the test, introduced by McClusky, helps depict the Hornblower's sign: [2]
- The patient is standing with their arms by their side.
- The patient is asked to bring their hands to their mouth
- If a large posterior rotator cuff tear is present, the patient would not be able ot bring their hands to their mouth without first abducting their arms
This movement with abduction is called the Hornblower's Sign.
Instructional Video[edit | edit source]
Interpretation[edit | edit source]
The test is positive if the patient is unable to perform external rotation, and thus indicates a tear in teres minor. [1]
Evidence[edit | edit source]
The follow information shows the Sensitivity and Specificity values, and the positive and negative Likelihood Ratios. [1][4][5]
| Sensitivity | 100% |
| Specificity | 93% |
| +LR | 14.29 |
| -LR | 0.0 |
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 Magee D. J. Shoulder. Orthopedic Physical Assessment. 7th Edition. Philadelphia. Elsevier. 2022.
- ↑ McClusky CM. Classification and diagnosis of glenohumeral instability in athletes. Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy Review. 2000:8:158–169.
- ↑ Clinically Relevant Technologies, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KcNBtbVaatY; Accessed May 2011
- ↑ Walch G, Boulahia A, Calderone S, Robinson AHN. The 'dropping' and 'hornblower's' signs in evaluation of rotator cuff tears. 1998; 80: 624-28.
- ↑ Cleland J, 2005, Orthopedic Clinical Examination: An Evidence-Based Approach for Physical Therapists, 1st edition, New Jersey: Icon Learning Systems LLC.
