Basic Principles :

The basic functional examination is standardized, which permits a systematic search for signs.
All the different tissues of the shoulder are tested in a functional way: They are brought selectively under tension and the results are noted.
The combination of positive and negative answers forms a pattern that leads to a diagnosis.

The basic shoulder examination consists of 12 tests:

• three elevations ( active / detection of a painful arc / passive)
• three passive tests for the scapulohumeral joint
• six resisted movements.

After having performed all twelve tests, the sum of both positive and negative answers forms a pattern pointing to a pathology or a group of pathologies.