Test: Adson Test

Video Link

Background/Purpose

Adson's Test is performed to evaluate the radial pulse in response to cervical rotation and extension and shoulder extension. The test has traditionally been used to evaluate for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome since it puts increased stretch on the anterior and middle scalene muscles and decreases the interscalene space (Plewa, 1998).
This test has been found to be unreliable since it provides a high rate of false-positives(Kelly, 1979).

Procedure

Subject sits in an upright position with the hands across their lap. The examiner palpates the radial artery pulse. The subject takes in a deep breath to elevate the ribs and then extends the cervical spine. The head and neck are then rotated to that same side. The examiner looks for a decrease in radial pulse with this maneuver.
Performed: Unilaterally

Dialog

Palpate the radial pulse while the subject takes a deep breath in and extends and rotates the neck.

Criteria

• Decrease in radial pulse pressure

Measurement

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LOINC Code

0

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail