Test: Jobe (Empty Can) Test

Video Link

Background/Purpose

This maneuver, also described as the ‘‘empty can’’ test, was originally described by Jobe and Moynes in 1982.Based on unpublished electromyographic (EMG) data, this position was described to have a high level of supraspinatus activity.20 Over time, this position and test have also become the de facto way to best isolate the supraspinatus from the remainder of the rotator cuff.
However, numerous studies have demonstrated Jobe’s test (also referred to in the literature and in common communication as the empty can test) to be insensitive,
nonspecific, and inaccurate. In some studies, the sensitivity is as low as 30%, the specificity is as low as 35%, and the accuracy is as low as 50%.

Procedure

The shoulder is abducted to 90 degrees and the shoulder is forward flexed to 30 degrees. The shoulder is maximally internally rotated, the elbow fully extended, and the forearm fully pronated.
Performed: Unilaterally

Dialog

Shoulder abducted 90 degrees and 30 degrees flexion

Criteria

• Full strength
• No pain

Measurement

LOINC Code

0

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail