Supraspinatus Tear: Sensitivity and Specificity

Introduction: Part of the Rotator Cuff.

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The sensitivity and specificity of findings for Supraspinatus Tear are listed below. See the left navigation bar to change the display.

Sensitive Findings

Jobe Test

86%

66%

aka Empty Can Test

Supraspinatus may be isolated by having the patient rotate the upper extremity, so that the thumbs are pointing to the floor and resistance is applied with the arms in 30 degrees of forward flexion and 90 degrees of abduction (simulates emptying of a can). Test is positive when weakness is present compared with the unaffected side, suggesting a disruption of the supraspinatus tendon.

Study: Joint Bone Spine. 2008 Dec 5. PMID: 19059801

Poorly Diagnostic Findings

Full Can Test

77%

74%

The full can test consists in evaluating the patient's ability to resist downward pressure on the arms held at 90° elevation in the scapular plane and 45° external rotation. (positive if weakness)

Study: Joint Bone Spine. 2008 Dec 5. PMID: 19059801