The Hawkins test, also known as the Hawkins-Kennedy test, is primarily used to assess for shoulder impingement. This test helps healthcare providers determine if there's compression of the rotator cuff tendons and bursa against the coracoacromial arch in the shoulder.
Understanding the Hawkins Test
The Hawkins test involves specific movements to provoke pain, indicating a potential issue with shoulder impingement. Here’s how it works:
- Positioning: The patient's arm is raised to 90 degrees of forward flexion and the elbow is bent at 90 degrees.
- Movement: The examiner then passively internally rotates the patient's arm.
- Interpretation: A positive test is indicated by pain during the passive internal rotation. This pain suggests the rotator cuff tendons are being compressed.
What Shoulder Impingement Means
Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff are squeezed between the acromion (outermost part of the shoulder blade) and the head of the humerus (upper arm bone). This compression can lead to pain, inflammation, and limited shoulder movement. The Hawkins test helps identify this condition by replicating these compressive forces.
Key Points from Reference Video
According to the YouTube video titled "Hawkins Kennedy Test | Shoulder Impingement," a positive Hawkins test is identified by the provocation of pain when the patient’s arm is passively internally rotated, indicating the likelihood of shoulder impingement.
When is the Hawkins Test Useful?
The Hawkins test is particularly useful for:
- Initial assessment of shoulder pain.
- Monitoring the progression of shoulder impingement.
- Evaluating the effectiveness of treatment for shoulder impingement.
Limitations of the Hawkins Test
It is important to note that while the Hawkins test is a helpful diagnostic tool, it is not definitive on its own. Other conditions can cause shoulder pain and may present with similar results. Therefore, the Hawkins test is generally used in conjunction with other physical exam findings and potentially imaging tests to arrive at an accurate diagnosis.
In Summary
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To assess for shoulder impingement |
| Movement | Passive internal rotation of the arm after raising it to 90 degrees of flexion and bending elbow 90 degrees. |
| Positive Result | Pain during internal rotation, suggesting compression of rotator cuff tendons. |
| Limitations | Not definitive, other conditions may also cause similar pain; used with other tests to diagnose accurately. |
