OnExam
Anterior Apprehension Test
The anterior apprehension test is used to assess for anterior shoulder instability.
Performing the Test
Start by passively abducting the patient's arm to 90°, externally rotating it to 90°, and flexing the elbow to 90° (thrower’s position)
The examiner then applies force to the posterior humeral head
The test is positive if the patient feels apprehensive about dislocation or feels pain
Sensitivity: 88%; specificity: 50%
LR+ = 1.8; LR- = 0.2
References
Essential Evidence Plus. http://www.essentialevidenceplus.com. 2011. Accessed February 2011.
Magee D. Orthopedic Physical Assessment. 1st ed. Philadelphia:Saunders; 1986.
Hurley K. OSCE and Clinical Skills Handbook. Halifax: Elsevier Canada; 2005.