Physical examination maneuver
Physical Exam
Shoulder Palpation
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Video coming September 2026
How to Perform
Palpate the shoulder systematically, comparing sides. Feel the sternoclavicular joint, the clavicle, the acromioclavicular joint, the acromion, the coracoid process, the greater tuberosity, the bicipital groove, and the surrounding muscles. Note any tenderness, swelling, warmth, crepitus, or deformity at each site.
How to Interpret
Showing 2 of 3 findings
Acromioclavicular Joint Pathology
Tenderness on direct palpation over the acromioclavicular joint (the joint line at the lateral end of the clavicle, where it meets the acromion)
Rule in
—
Rule out
Somewhat helpful
Evidence:Limited
Biceps Tendinopathy
Tenderness on palpation over the bicipital groove (the long head of the biceps tendon on the front of the humerus, best localized with the arm in slight internal rotation)
Rule in
Minimally helpful
Rule out
—
Evidence:Limited