How To Self Check For Shoulder Pain

The shoulder is one of the most vulnerable joints in the body. Experiencing shoulder pain when sleeping, exercising, or with overhead movement may be a minor concern or an indicator of a more serious issue. Since February is National Self-Check Month, our Brooklyn orthopedist at Advanced Orthopedics & Joint Preservation would like to share some self-check tips to help you determine what is wrong with your shoulder. While this method can’t replace an orthopedist or give a definitive diagnosis, it can help you better understand your symptoms. 

Self-Check for Shoulder Pain

When visiting our Brooklyn orthopedist for shoulder pain, they will perform several tests to rule out the cause of your pain. There are several different tests for shoulder pain, but there are few that can be performed on yourself at home. Here is how you can self-check your shoulder pain:

Speeds Test

The Speed’s test is meant to identify bicep tendonitis and can be performed in a standing or seated position:

• Extend your arm straight out with your palm facing the ceiling. 
• Use the unaffected arm to push down and try to resist the pressure. 
• Keep your arm straight out and turn your palm face down. Repeat the first steps and apply pressure down. 

If your pain worsens when your palm is up than when it is down, you may have a possible SLAP tear or tendonitis. 

Empty Can Test (Jobe Test)

This is used to test the rotator cuff muscles and is simple to perform on your own:

• Raise your arm to the side and bring it forward a few inches. 
• Turn your hand down as if you are pouring out a can of soda. 
• With the unaffected arm, apply downward pressure to your forearm. 

If you have weakness or significant pain in this position, you may have tendon irritation or injury. 

Neer Test 

The Neer test is designed to look for shoulder impingement:

• Start with your arms down by your side, then rotate the affected arm inward so that the thumb faces down and backward. 
• Lift your arm straight towards the ceiling. 

If the Neer test causes pain, it can indicate that something in your shoulder is being pinched. 

Contact Us

When experiencing shoulder pain, it’s crucial to stop guessing what is causing the pain and get answers. At Advanced Orthopedics & Joint Preservation, our team will identify the source of your shoulder pain and recommend the appropriate treatments to set you on the road to recovery. Be sure to contact our Brooklyn orthopedist today to schedule an appointment! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_ro