A patient presents with a 10-year-old chronic GH dislocation. Which is NOT a test that should be performed?

In the case of a patient with a 10-year-old chronic glenohumeral (GH) dislocation, it is essential to choose diagnostic tests that are appropriate for both the condition and the chronicity of the dislocation. The correct choice indicates that a joint mobilization test should not be performed.

Joint mobilization tests are used to assess the quality of movement and the integrity of a joint, which often involves applying techniques that can be destabilizing or uncomfortable to the patient, particularly in cases where there is existing joint instability, as in the case of a chronic dislocation. In a long-standing dislocation, the joint's mechanics and structural integrity could be severely compromised, making this type of assessment inappropriate, as it may exacerbate instability or pain.

On the other hand, the other tests mentioned serve specific purposes: Apley's Scratch Test assesses shoulder range of motion and the functional mobility of the shoulder, the Isometric muscle test evaluates the strength of surrounding musculature which is important for managing the consequences of such a dislocation, and the Apprehension Test is specifically designed to assess for habitual dislocation or instability of the GH joint.

By choosing not to perform the joint mobilization test, the clinician prioritizes the patient's safety and comfort