A positive Hawkins test indicates a possible impingement in the shoulder joint. Specifically, it suggests that certain structures located between the greater tubercle of the humerus and the coracohumeral ligament are being compressed.
Understanding the Hawkins Test
The Hawkins-Kennedy test, commonly referred to as the Hawkins test, is a physical examination maneuver used to assess for shoulder impingement syndrome. This condition occurs when soft tissues in the shoulder are compressed, causing pain and limited movement.
How the Test is Performed
The test is conducted by:
- The examiner flexing the patient’s arm to 90 degrees.
- The examiner then internally rotates the shoulder.
What a Positive Test Means
A positive test is marked by the reproduction of shoulder pain. According to the reference, this pain is often a result of the impingement of specific structures in the shoulder, which are:
- Supraspinatus muscle: A rotator cuff muscle crucial for arm abduction.
- Teres minor muscle: Another rotator cuff muscle involved in external rotation of the arm.
- Infraspinatus muscle: A rotator cuff muscle that assists in external rotation and stabilization of the shoulder.
Implications of a Positive Hawkins Test
A positive Hawkins test doesn't definitively diagnose a specific condition, but rather it indicates the presence of a potential problem. It is a sign that further evaluation, including other physical tests and possibly imaging, is required to confirm the diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
Conditions Associated with a Positive Hawkins Test
A positive Hawkins test can be associated with a number of conditions including, but not limited to:
- Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis or Tear
- Bursitis
Table Summarizing a Positive Hawkins Test
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Test Goal | To assess for shoulder impingement. |
| Test Procedure | Flex the arm at 90 degrees and then internally rotate the shoulder. |
| Positive Sign | Reproduction of shoulder pain |
| Structures Involved | Supraspinatus, teres minor, and infraspinatus muscles. |
| Indication | Indicates impingement of structures between the greater tubercle of the humerus and the coracohumeral ligament. |
Summary
In summary, a positive Hawkins test points towards a shoulder impingement, affecting structures like the supraspinatus, teres minor, and infraspinatus muscles. It is a crucial finding that requires further investigation for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
