Painful Arc Test

Special Test

Pain between 60-120 deg of abduction suggests impingement.

Purpose

Screen for Painful Arc findings.

Execution

1. Stand with arms relaxed at sides
2. Slowly abduct the arm through the full range
3. Note the range where pain appears or resolves
4. Repeat on the opposite side
5. Document the painful arc range

Key Observations

• Pain in the mid-range of abduction
• Subacromial structures are compressed

Views

• frontal

Protocol

1. Observe from: frontal.
2. Standardize start position and instructions.
3. Perform 2-3 trials per side when applicable.
4. Record key observations and any positive indicators.
5. Compare left vs right when applicable.

Reference

David J. Magee