- Tensile Test
Your doctor may also conduct a shoulder-specific examination of your shoulder’s strength. Each of the rotator cuff’s four muscles is designed to stabilize the shoulder and generate force.
The rotator cuff consists of the subscapularis, supraspinatus, teres minor, and infraspinatus muscles. A swimmer’s internal rotators are typically sturdier than their external rotators. This can result in a force imbalance in the rotator cuff. When conducting a strength test, all rotator cuff components will be examined to determine if any are substantially weakened or damaged.
To perform this exam, you will be seated and then raise one arm at a 90-degree angle to the side. The elbow will then be bent until the hand points to the ceiling. Your physician will assess the rotation of your arm to detect any signs of injury.
