A positive Drop-Arm Test indicates what condition?

A positive Drop-Arm Test is indicative of a rotator cuff tear. This clinical test evaluates the integrity of the rotator cuff, particularly the supraspinatus tendon. During the test, the patient is asked to raise their arm to shoulder height and then slowly lower it. If the arm drops suddenly or the patient is unable to control the descent, it suggests the presence of a tear in the rotator cuff muscles, which are responsible for stabilizing and moving the shoulder joint.

In contrast, a negative or unremarkable test result would usually imply that the rotator cuff is functioning well. This makes the Drop-Arm Test a valuable diagnostic tool for healthcare professionals when assessing shoulder injuries. Understanding this relationship between the test and the condition reinforces the importance of the rotator cuff in shoulder mechanics and pathology.