What is the main focus of the drop arm test?

The drop arm test primarily focuses on testing the supraspinatus muscle, which is one of the four rotator cuff muscles responsible for shoulder stabilization and abduction of the arm. In this clinical examination procedure, the patient is instructed to abduct their arm to shoulder height and then slowly lower it back down. If there is a tear in the supraspinatus tendon, the arm may drop suddenly or the patient may be unable to control the motion, indicating weakness or dysfunction in the muscle. This test is particularly valuable for diagnosing rotator cuff injuries, especially those relating to the supraspinatus, and helps guide treatment decisions.

While other options present different aspects of shoulder assessment, they are not the primary focus of the drop arm test. Assessing bicipital tenosynovitis relates to the inflammation of the tendon of the long head of the biceps, measuring range of motion focuses on the extent of movement in the shoulder joint, and evaluating shoulder instability pertains to assessing the overall stability and integrity of shoulder ligaments and muscles.