In a positive Hawkins-Kennedy Impingement Test, which muscle is typically affected?

The Hawkins-Kennedy Impingement Test is primarily used to assess shoulder impingement, particularly involving the rotator cuff muscles and structures. A positive result on this test suggests that there may be compression or irritation of the structures in the subacromial space, primarily affecting the supraspinatus muscle.

The supraspinatus muscle plays a crucial role in the initial stages of shoulder abduction and is commonly involved in conditions where impingement occurs due to surrounding anatomical structures' proximity. When the arm is positioned in a way that mimics overhead activities during the Hawkins-Kennedy Test, any inflammation or irritation of the supraspinatus can result in pain or discomfort, which indicates a positive response.

This highlights the importance of the supraspinatus in shoulder function and its susceptibility to impingement, reinforcing why it is the muscle typically associated with a positive Hawkins-Kennedy Impingement Test.