Adson’s test

Purpose
Adson’s test is a provocative test for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome accompanied by compression of the Subclavian artery by a cervical rib or tightened anterior and middle scalene muscles.[1]
Technique
Starting Position [2]

The test can be performed with the patient in either sitting or standing with their elbow in full extension

Procedure [2]

• The arm of the standing (or seated) patient is abducted 30 degrees at the shoulder and maximally extended.

• The radial pulse is palpated and the examiner grasps the patient’s wrist.

• The patient then extends the neck and turns the head toward the symptomatic shoulder and is asked to take a deep breath and hold it.

• The quality of the radial pulse is evaluated in comparison to the pulse taken while the arm is resting at the patient’s side.

• Some clinicians have patients turn their head away from the side tested in a modified test.

Positive Test [2]

The test is positive if there is a marked decrease, or disappearance, of the radial pulse. It is important to check the patient’s radial pulse on the other arm to recognize the patient’s normal pulse.

A positive test should be compared with the non-symptomatic side.