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Scarf Test

Evaluate a patient's shoulder range of motion and check for possible impingement using the Scarf Test.

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By Matt Olivares on Oct 10, 2025.

Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.

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Commonly asked questions

Ask your patient to place one arm across their chest. Then, apply pressure to their elbow and ask them to resist. Pain or discomfort during the test may indicate a shoulder injury.

The Scarf Test measures shoulder joint strength and stability, assessing issues like rotator cuff tears, impingement, tendinitis, and instability.

The Scarf Test reliably indicates shoulder injuries used in clinical research studies. However, it's not a standalone diagnostic tool and should be part of a complete evaluation by a medical professional.

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