College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

For a patient presenting with a chronic GH dislocation, which test is NOT typically performed?

1. Apley's Scratch Test

2. AF-Apprehension Test

3. Muscle Strength Test

4. Shoulder Shrug Test

The correct answer is: Shoulder Shrug Test

In the context of assessing a patient with a chronic glenohumeral (GH) dislocation, the Shoulder Shrug Test is not typically performed as part of the diagnostic evaluation. This is because the Shoulder Shrug Test primarily assesses the integrity and strength of the upper trapezius muscle and the accessory nerve rather than specifically examining the function or stability of the shoulder joint itself. On the other hand, Apley's Scratch Test and the Apprehension Test directly evaluate shoulder range of motion, stability, and the presence of pain, which are vital factors when dealing with shoulder dislocations. Apley's Scratch Test assesses overall shoulder mobility, including external and internal rotation, while the Apprehension Test specifically gauges the patient's apprehension regarding shoulder instability, making both tests significantly relevant in this scenario. Additionally, muscle strength tests help evaluate the functional capacity of the surrounding musculature, which can be affected by a chronic dislocation. Thus, while these assessments contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the shoulder's condition, the Shoulder Shrug Test does not provide the necessary insights regarding a chronic GH dislocation.