Clinical assessment of posterior shoulder joint instability

Authors: L Funk, CM Owen, C Bonner

References: Journal of Arthroscopy & Joint Surgery, Aug 2014. DOI: 10.1016/j.jajs.2014.07.002

Posterior shoulder instability is less common than anterior and is not as readily recognised. There are numerous clinical tests for posterior instability. They all have benefits and disadvantages, depending on the type of instability and strength of the patient. In this article we describe the most common clinical tests for posterior instability and review the literature supporting each test. In this manner, we hope that this will provide the clinician with a better understanding of each test and it's value.

Keywords
Shoulder; Posterior instability; Clinical tests; Posterior dislocations