What is Adson’s Test?
Adson’s Test, also known as Adson’s Maneuver, is a test used in orthopedic examination of the shoulder when testing for thoracic outlet syndrome.
Other tests for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome include:
Involved Structures
- subclavian artery
- anterior scalene
- middle scalene
By English: Nicholas Zaorsky, M.D. (English: Nicholas Zaorsky, M.D.) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Starting Position
The test can be performed with the patient in either sitting or standing with their elbow in full extension. As usual, it is best to test both sides for comparison.
Test Movement
The examiner palpates the radial pulse on the side to be tested. The examiner extends, abducts and externally rotate the patient’s arm. The patient is asked to take a deep breath and hold it. Then the patient is asked to extend their neck and rotate their head towards the side being tested.
Positive Test
Adson’s Test is considered positive if the examiner detects a significant decrease in strength, or complete disappearance, of the radial pulse.
Accuracy of Test
This test is not considered to be very accurate or reliable for determining thoracic outlet syndrome. The test is quite subjective.
Video Demonstration
video source: Physiotutors
>> Return to the list of Orthopedic Tests of the Shoulder