GRIND TEST

​• ​Test positioning

The client lies supine on a table with their shoulder abducted to 90-degrees and their elbow flexed to 90-degrees on the involved side.

The therapist grasps the client's elbow with one hand and the client's proximal humerus with the other hand.

​• ​Action

The therapist applies compression to the glenoid labrum while attempting to rotate the humeral head 360-degrees around the surface of the glenoid fossa.

​• ​Positive finding

A positive finding of a grinding or clunking sensation may be indicative of a glenoid labrum tear to the specific location, which is being compressed.

​• ​Special considerations & comments

​​This test should be done carefully, since the application of excessive pressure combined with rotation may further damage the glenoid labrum.

The Grind Test is attributed to the work of Dr. James Andrews and Dr. John C. Kennedy, whose contributions to the understanding of shoulder joint mechanics and labral pathology have been crucial in the development of this assessment.