Shoulder examination

Step by step guide to an orthopaedic examination of the shoulder joint, using the look, feel, move structure.

How does the examination begin?

WINDEC

WINDEC

Wash hands

Introduce yourself

Name and DOB (patient)

Explain the procedure to the patient

Consent

After WINDEC, what is the next step?

• Adequately expose the patient’s upper body and provide a blanket to cover the patient when not being examined.

• Position the patient standing for initial inspection of the shoulders.

• Ask the patient if they have any pain before proceeding with the clinical examination.

What is the next step of the examination after correctly positioning the patient and asking about pain?

Look: General Inspection.

What are you looking for in the general inspection?

• Body habitus (obesity is a risk factor)

• Scars

• Muscle atrophy

• Objects or equipment (aids and adaptions like a sling, or prescriptions)

After the general inspection, what is next?

Look: closer inspection of the shoulder.

• Anterior inspection

• Lateral inspection

• Posterior inspection

What are you you looking for during the anterior inspection of the shoulder joint?