Yocum`s Test
- Fysiobasen
- Oct 3
- 2 min read
Yocum’s test is used to assess the possibility of rotator cuff impingement in the shoulder, also known as subacromial impingement syndrome. The maneuver is sometimes referred to as the Yocum maneuver¹.
Test execution
Patient position
The patient places the hand of the affected shoulder on the opposite shoulder (cross-body adduction).
Examiner action
The examiner then lifts the patient’s elbow.
Interpretation
The test is considered positive if the patient experiences pain or discomfort during the maneuver².
Diagnostic validity and evidence
Sensitivity: 79%
Specificity: 40%⁴
Compared to other clinical tests for subacromial impingement, Yocum’s test demonstrates higher sensitivity than:
Patte’s test (57.9%)
Gerber’s test (68.4%)³
However, the relatively low specificity (40%) means that the test alone is not sufficient for a reliable diagnosis.
For improved diagnostic accuracy, Yocum’s test should be combined with other impingement tests such as Neer’s test and the Hawkins-Kennedy test, along with a thorough clinical evaluation of the patient’s symptoms and history.
Clinical relevance
Provides a quick screening tool for suspected subacromial impingement.
Valuable as part of a test cluster, but not recommended as a stand-alone diagnostic tool.
Helps guide clinicians in differentiating between rotator cuff impingement and other shoulder pathologies.
Conclusion
Yocum’s test is a simple and sensitive clinical test for detecting subacromial impingement syndrome. While its sensitivity is relatively high, its low specificity limits its standalone diagnostic value. The test is best applied in combination with other clinical shoulder impingement tests to improve diagnostic precision.
Sources:
David J. Magee. Orthopedic Physical Assessment. 6th edition. Elsevier. 2014.
Yocum LA. Assessing the shoulder. History, physical examination, differential diagnosis, and special tests used, Clin Sports Med, 1983, vol. 2 (pg. 281-9).
Yocum’s Test - Shoulder impingement Assessment: https://youtu.be/i39VxR1NeSE
L. Silva, J. L. Andréu, P. Muñoz, M. Pastrana, I. Millán, J. Sanz, C. Barbadillo, M. Fernández-Castro, Accuracy of physical examination in subacromial impingement syndrome, Rheumatology, Volume 47, Issue 5, May 2008, Pages 679–683, https://doi.org/10.1093/rheumatology/ken101
Silva L, Andréu JL, Muñoz P, et al. Accuracy of physical examination in subacromial impingement syndrome. Rheumatology (Oxford). 2008;47(5):679-683. doi:10.1093/rheumatology/ken101
