- Drop Arm Experiment
A doctor may perform what is known as a drop arm test to determine whether or not you have ruptured your rotator cuff. Your physician will request that you stand or sit on the diagnostic table.
The examiner will then adjust the arm to a 90-degree angle while standing on the side of the arm being evaluated. When the examiner releases your arm, you will slowly and deliberately lower your shoulder to the side of your body.
If the arm falls to the side abruptly and you are unable to control the rate at which it returns to your side, there is a high chance that you have suffered a rotator cuff injury. This test is valid because the primary function of the rotator cuff is to maintain the stability of the humerus in the shoulder socket.
