Quick Overview
Hawkins Kennedy test, also known as Hawkins impingement test. It is a physical examination test used to assess subacromial impingement syndrome (SAIS). SAIS is a condition in which the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles become inflamed and irritated as they rub against the acromion, a bony projection at the tip of the shoulder blade.
Table of Contents
Hawkins Test Shoulder
Hawkins test is performed with the patient’s arm in 90 degrees of shoulder flexion and 90 degrees of elbow flexion. The examiner then internally rotates the patient’s shoulder. If the patient experiences pain, the test is considered positive.
Purpose of Hawkins Kennedy test
The primary purpose of the Hawkins Kennedy Test is to diagnose or confirm the presence of shoulder impingement, a condition that can lead to discomfort, limited range of motion, and pain in the shoulder area. By assessing the shoulder’s impingement potential, healthcare professionals can determine the need for further evaluation or intervention.
Read Y Balance Test and Drop Arm Test
Hawkins Kennedy test Procedure
1- Patient Positioning: The patient is typically asked to stand or sit comfortably.
2- Examiner’s Role: The healthcare practitioner then takes the patient’s arm and elevates it to 90 degrees of shoulder flexion, positioning the shoulder at a right angle.
3- Internal Rotation: While maintaining this position, the examiner internally rotates the patient’s arm by gently rotating the forearm and hand towards the patient’s nose.
4- Assessment: During the internal rotation maneuver, the examiner carefully observes the patient’s reaction for any signs of pain or discomfort.
Positive Hawkins Impingement Test
A positive Hawkins impingement test is indicated when the patient experiences pain performing the test when their arm is internally rotated in 90 degrees of shoulder flexion and elbow flexion. This pain is thought to be due to impingement of the rotator cuff tendons on the acromion.
Hawkins Impingement Sign
The Hawkins impingement sign is a positive Hawkins impingement test. This means that the patient experiences pain when their arm is internally rotated in 90 degrees of shoulder flexion and elbow flexion.
Neer and Hawkins Test
Neer and Hawkins test is a combination of Hawkins impingement test and the Neer test. Neer test is another physical examination test used to assess subacromial impingement syndrome. The Neer and Hawkins test is performed in the same way as the Hawkins impingement test, but the examiner also applies downward pressure on the patient’s arm during internal rotation.
Treatment for Subacromial Impingement Syndrome
The treatment for subacromial impingement syndrome depends on the severity of the condition and the patient’s symptoms. However some of the common treatment option may include;
- Physical therapy to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles and improve flexibility
- Cortisone injections to reduce inflammation and pain
- Surgery to remove the inflamed bursa and/or repair the damaged rotator cuff tendons
Question
Q: I just had a Hawkins Kennedy test, and it was positive. What does that mean?
A positive Hawkins Kennedy test means that you are likely experiencing subacromial impingement syndrome (SAIS). SAIS is a condition in which the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles become inflamed and irritated as they rub against the acromion, a bony projection at the tip of the shoulder blade.
Q: What are the symptoms of SAIS?
The most common symptom of SAIS is pain in the front of the shoulder. The pain may be worse with overhead activities, such as reaching for something on a high shelf or throwing a ball. Other symptoms of SAIS include:
Weakness in the shoulder
Reduced range of motion in the shoulder
A popping or clicking sound in the shoulder when moving it
Q: What are the treatment options for SAIS?
Treatment for SAIS typically starts with conservative measures, such as:
1- Rest
2- Ice application
3- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
4- Physical therapy
If conservative measures are not effective, your doctor may recommend other treatments, such as cortisone injections or surgery.
Q: Can I prevent SAIS?
There is no sure way to prevent SAIS, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:
1- Strengthening your rotator cuff muscles
2- Warming up before participating in overhead activities
3- Using proper form when performing overhead activities
4- Avoiding activities that aggravate your shoulder pain
Q: When should I see a doctor for shoulder pain?
You should see a doctor for shoulder pain if:
1- The pain is severe or does not improve with home treatment
2- The pain is accompanied by other symptoms, such as swelling, redness, or fever
3- You have difficulty moving your shoulder
4- You have a history of shoulder injury
If you are experiencing shoulder pain, be sure to see a doctor or physical therapist to get a diagnosis and treatment plan.