empty can test shoulder

Natashya

3 min read

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18-03-2025

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The empty can test, also known as the Jobe test, is a common physical examination used to evaluate the strength and function of the rotator cuff muscles, specifically the supraspinatus. This test is particularly useful in diagnosing potential rotator cuff tears or other shoulder pathologies. Understanding how to perform and interpret the empty can test is crucial for both healthcare professionals and individuals concerned about their shoulder health.

Understanding the Rotator Cuff

Before delving into the empty can test, let's briefly discuss the rotator cuff. This group of four muscles—supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis—surrounds the shoulder joint, providing stability and facilitating a wide range of motion. The supraspinatus muscle plays a key role in initiating shoulder abduction (lifting the arm away from the body). Weakness or injury to the supraspinatus is often indicated by a positive empty can test.

How to Perform the Empty Can Test

The empty can test is relatively simple to perform, but accuracy requires proper technique. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Positioning: The patient should stand or sit with their arms at their sides.

2. Arm Position: Ask the patient to raise their arms to the side, bending their elbows to 90 degrees. Their thumbs should point downwards, mimicking the action of holding an empty can.

3. Resistance: The examiner applies downward pressure on the patient's forearms. This resistance tests the supraspinatus muscle's ability to resist this force and maintain the arm position.

4. Observation: A positive test is indicated by weakness or pain in the shoulder when resistance is applied. The inability to hold the arms in the "empty can" position against resistance suggests potential supraspinatus pathology.

Interpreting the Results

A positive empty can test suggests possible rotator cuff pathology, particularly involving the supraspinatus muscle. However, it's crucial to remember that a positive test doesn't definitively diagnose a specific condition. Other factors must be considered, including the patient's medical history, symptoms, and other physical examination findings.

Positive Test: Weakness or pain during the test suggests potential issues such as:

• Supraspinatus tear: A partial or full-thickness tear of the supraspinatus tendon is a common cause of weakness and pain.
• Supraspinatus tendinitis: Inflammation of the supraspinatus tendon can also cause pain and weakness.
• Other shoulder pathologies: Conditions like bursitis, impingement syndrome, and arthritis can also contribute to a positive test.

Negative Test: Absence of pain or weakness with resistance suggests that the supraspinatus muscle is functioning normally. However, this doesn't rule out other potential shoulder problems.

What to Do if You Have a Positive Empty Can Test

If you experience pain or weakness during the empty can test, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional, such as a physician or physical therapist. They can conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment. This may involve:

• Imaging studies: X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound may be used to visualize the shoulder joint and assess for rotator cuff tears or other abnormalities.
• Physical therapy: Rehabilitation exercises can help strengthen the rotator cuff muscles, improve range of motion, and reduce pain.
• Medication: Pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation.
• Surgery: In cases of severe rotator cuff tears, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tendon.

The Empty Can Test: Limitations and Alternatives

While the empty can test is a valuable tool, it does have limitations. It primarily assesses the supraspinatus muscle and may not detect problems with other rotator cuff muscles. Other tests, such as the drop arm test and external rotation lag sign, may be used in conjunction with the empty can test to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of the rotator cuff.

The empty can test is a quick, simple assessment. It helps screen for potential rotator cuff issues. Remember, however, it should be part of a complete diagnostic process guided by a healthcare professional. Self-diagnosis should be avoided. Always consult a doctor for any shoulder pain or weakness.