shoulder movements (segmental supply)

Last reviewed 01/2018

In the neurological examination, the following movements and their power should be tested:

  • testing abduction - C5, 6 - ask the patient to abduct his arms with his elbows flexed. Ask the patient to resist when the examiner pushing down on his arms.
  • testing adduction - C6, 7, 8 - again ask the patient to abduct his arms with his elbows flexed. This time ask the patient to try and lower his elbows to his sides whilst the examiner resists.