Yocum Test, Shoulder Impingement Tests, Labrum Orthopedic Tests, Diagnostic Tests for Shoulder Pain

Yocum Test:

• What is Yocum Test?
• Shoulder Impingement Tests
• Labrum Orthopedic Tests
• Diagnostic Tests for Shoulder Pain

What is Yocum Test?

The Yocum Test is a clinical orthopedic maneuver used to assess shoulder impingement, particularly involving the supraspinatus tendon and structures under the acromion. It is a modified version of the Hawkins-Kennedy test and is commonly performed in physiotherapy and orthopedic examinations. During the test, the patient places their hand on the opposite shoulder and lifts the elbow upward without lifting the shoulder. If the movement reproduces pain in the anterior or lateral shoulder, the test is considered positive for impingement.

The Yocum Test is valuable because it is easy to perform, requires no equipment, and gives clinicians a quick indication of whether impingement or rotator cuff irritation may be contributing to symptoms. While it is not used as the sole diagnostic tool, it forms part of a cluster of tests that increase diagnostic accuracy when combined. Its simplicity and effectiveness make it a common component of shoulder evaluations, especially in patients with chronic pain, overhead activity discomfort, or suspected rotator cuff pathology.

Shoulder Impingement Tests

Shoulder impingement tests are designed to detect irritation or compression of the rotator cuff tendons and subacromial structures. These tests help clinicians pinpoint whether repetitive overhead movement, inflammation, or biomechanical dysfunction is causing the shoulder pain. Common shoulder impingement tests include the Hawkins-Kennedy test, Neer sign, Painful Arc test, and the Yocum Test. Each of these tests stresses the shoulder in slightly different ways to identify painful compression points.

A positive test typically indicates inflammation of the supraspinatus tendon, bursitis, or narrowing of the subacromial space. Using multiple tests together increases diagnostic accuracy. Impingement cluster testing is often paired with strength testing, range of motion assessment, and imaging if needed. These tests are essential for early diagnosis because untreated impingement can progress into rotator cuff tears, chronic pain, or limited shoulder function, especially in athletes and manual labor workers.

Labrum Orthopedic Tests

Labrum tests focus on detecting tears or instability involving the glenoid labrum, a ring of cartilage that deepens the shoulder socket. Injuries to the labrum often occur in athletes engaged in throwing sports, trauma such as falls, or repetitive overhead activity. Orthopedic labrum tests include O’Brien’s Test, Crank Test, Speed’s Test, and the Anterior Slide Test. These maneuvers are designed to place stress on the labrum and reproduce pain, clicking, or instability when damage is present.

Because labral tears can mimic other shoulder conditions, a cluster of tests is often used to improve diagnostic confidence. While physical examination provides important clues, MRI arthrograms are often required for confirmation. Labrum injuries may cause deep shoulder pain, catching sensations, or weakness with lifting—symptoms that differ from classic impingement. Understanding these distinctions helps clinicians decide the most appropriate treatment plan, including physical therapy or surgical repair.

Diagnostic Tests for Shoulder Pain

Diagnosing shoulder pain requires a combination of orthopedic tests, physical examination, patient history, and sometimes imaging. Clinical tests like the Yocum Test, Neer Sign, Empty Can Test, Speed’s Test, and Apprehension Test help identify whether the pain stems from impingement, rotator cuff tears, labral pathology, instability, or tendonitis. These tests isolate structures by moving the shoulder in specific ways, helping clinicians identify the cause of discomfort.

In addition to physical tests, imaging plays a major role in shoulder diagnostics. X-rays can identify bone spurs or joint degeneration, while ultrasound evaluates tendons, and MRI assesses soft tissues like the labrum and rotator cuff. Diagnostic accuracy increases when clinical tests are combined with imaging and patient history. Early diagnosis allows for targeted treatment, such as physiotherapy, injections, or surgery, ultimately improving shoulder function and reducing long-term complications.