Biceps Load Test

Biceps Load Test 1

Kim et al (1999) designed the biceps load test to evaluate the integrity ofthe superior glenoid labrum in shoulders with recurrent dislocations.

Test

The patient's arm is abducted to 90°, externally rotated and the forearm is supinated. If the test reproduces pain then active elbow flexion against resistance should decrease the patient's discomfort.

Positive

The active elbow flexion component of the test relieves the discomfort of the standard apprehension test for anterior instability.

Research

75 patients with proven unilateral anterior shoulder dislocations were prospectively examined in a double blind fashion with arthroscopic examination and the biceps load test. 63 patients had a negative test and 62 of these had an intact biceps tendon-superior labrum complex; the remaining patient had a type 11 superior labral anterior and posterior lesion. 12 patients had positive tests, and 10 had superior labrallesions; the other 2 had intact superior labrums.