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Biceps Load Test

Biceps Load Test


Name
Purpose
Description
Sensitivity, Specificity
Validity, Reliability
Likelihood Ratio +/-
Biceps Load Test
This test assesses the integrity of the superior labrum.
“Patient is supine with shoulder abducted to 90 degrees and externally rotated, and forearm is supinated. Therapist passively externally rotates the shoulder until the patient becomes apprehensive. Rotation is stopped and the therapist resists elbow flexion while in this position. If apprehension decreases or the patient feels more comfortable, the test is negative for a SLAP lesion. If pain stays the same or worsens and apprehension remains, the test is considered positive.”[1]
Sensitivity
90%[2]
Specificity
97%2
 
+302
-0.102



[1] Magee DJ. Orthopedic Physical Assessment: 5th Edition. St. Louis, MO: Saunders Elsevier;2008.
[2] Kim SH et al. Biceps load test: a clinical test for superior labrum anterior and posterior lesions in shoulders with recurrent anterior dislocations. Am J Sports Med. 1999;27:300-303.