Inferior Shoulder Instability (Sulcus Sign) Test

Position:
Standing

Performance:
Patients arm is by the side and shoulder relaxed. Examiner grasps the patient's forearm below the elbow and pulles arm distally.

Positive:
Presence of Sulcus sign indicates inferior shoulder instability or glenohumeral laxity.

Sulcus Sign grading. (Measuring from inferior margin of the acromion to the humeral head)
+1 Sulcus implies a distance of less then 1 cm
+2 Sulcus implies a distance of 1-2 cm
+3 Sulcus implies a distance of more then 2 cm


Note: For best result test should be performed in the position in which sensation of instability was reported.