Shoulder Orthopaedic Test: Crank Test

The Crank Test is a physical examination maneuver used to detect glenoid labral tears in the shoulder joint.

Here are the steps to perform the Crank Test:

1. The patient lies supine on the examination table.
2. The examiner abducts the patient's arm to 160 degrees and flexes the elbow to 90 degrees.
3. The examiner then internally rotates the shoulder while maintaining the abduction and elbow flexion.
4. The examiner then externally rotates the shoulder while maintaining the abduction and elbow flexion.
5. The patient may experience pain or a clicking sensation during the test, indicating a possible glenoid labral tear.

Note: The test can also be performed with the patient sitting or standing.

The test is considered positive if the patient experiences pain or a "click" in the shoulder during the maneuver, which may indicate a tear of the glenoid labrum.

References:

1. O'Brien SJ, Pagnani MJ, Fealy S, McGlynn SR, Wilson JB. The active compression test: a new and effective test for diagnosing labral tears and acromioclavicular joint abnormality. Am J Sports Med. 1998 Mar-Apr;26(2):610-3. doi: 10.1177/03635465980260045201. PMID: 9548132.
2. Kim SH, Ha KI, Ahn JH, Kim SH, Choi HJ. Biceps load test II: a clinical test for SLAP lesions of the shoulder. Arthroscopy. 2001 Oct;17(8):160-4. doi: 10.1053/jars.2001.25171. PMID: 11600935.
3. Jobe CM. Superior glenoid impingement: update on recognition and treatment. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1996 Mar;(324):64-74. PMID: 8595805.
4. Hegedus EJ, Goode AP, Cook CE, Michener L, Myer CA, Myer DM, Wright AA. Which physical examination tests provide clinicians with the most value when examining the shoulder? Update of a systematic review with meta-analysis of individual tests. Br J Sports Med. 2012 Jul;46(8):964-78. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2012-091066. Epub 2012 Jun 18. PMID: 22711680.