What type of assessment would you perform to evaluate for a potential rotator cuff injury?

To evaluate a potential rotator cuff injury, it is essential to focus on the specific anatomy and function of the shoulder, as the rotator cuff comprises a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and allow for a wide range of shoulder movements. Conducting shoulder strength and range of motion tests allows the clinician to assess the integrity and functionality of the rotator cuff.

Strength tests help determine whether the muscles involved in the rotator cuff are functioning properly and can identify any weakness that might suggest injury. Range of motion tests evaluate how well the shoulder can move, assessing both active movement (performed by the patient) and passive movement (assisted by the examiner). Limitations or pain during these assessments can be indicative of rotator cuff pathology.

In contrast, assessing heart rate and respiratory function, knee stability, wrist flexibility, or endurance does not directly evaluate the shoulder or the specific structures involved in a rotator cuff injury, rendering those options less relevant for this particular assessment.