Which test assesses shoulder mobility across flexion, extension, abduction and rotation?

Which test assesses shoulder mobility across flexion, extension, abduction and rotation?

• A. Kendall test
• B. Sahrmann core stability test
• C. Ely test
• D. Apley's scratch test

Answer: (D)

Apley’s scratch test is a functional screen of shoulder mobility that involves moving the hand across the chest to touch the opposite shoulder blade and then moving the other hand behind the back to touch up the spine. This setup requires the shoulder to perform flexion, abduction, and both internal and external rotation (and some extension) in a single coordinated motion. By comparing how far the fingertips reach in each hand, you get a practical sense of the overall shoulder range across multiple directions, which is exactly what this item is asking about. Other tests are designed for different purposes: the Ely test checks tightness of the rectus femoris (a knee/hip issue), the Sahrmann core stability tests assess core muscle control, and Kendall’s test relates to different functional or postural assessments. None of those focus on assessing shoulder mobility across flexion, extension, abduction, and rotation in a single coordinated movement like this one.

Apley’s scratch test is a functional screen of shoulder mobility that involves moving the hand across the chest to touch the opposite shoulder blade and then moving the other hand behind the back to touch up the spine. This setup requires the shoulder to perform flexion, abduction, and both internal and external rotation (and some extension) in a single coordinated motion. By comparing how far the fingertips reach in each hand, you get a practical sense of the overall shoulder range across multiple directions, which is exactly what this item is asking about.

Other tests are designed for different purposes: the Ely test checks tightness of the rectus femoris (a knee/hip issue), the Sahrmann core stability tests assess core muscle control, and Kendall’s test relates to different functional or postural assessments. None of those focus on assessing shoulder mobility across flexion, extension, abduction, and rotation in a single coordinated movement like this one.