Scapular Assistance Test

Published July 2, 2026 Read time 1 min read Readers 3
Scapular Assistance Test

What is the "Scapular Assistance Test" used for?

  • Scapular Assistance Test SAT (or called Scapular Retraction Test SRT) is used to assess scapular motion and “scapular assistance” position during elevation and lowering of the arm to see if the impingement may be due to a lack of acromial elevation.

How to perform the "Scapular Assistance Test"?

  • The examiner stands behind the patient.
  • The patient is asked to actively elevate the arm while the examiner uses one hand to stabilize the upper medial border of the scapula (superior angle) and with the other hand he pushes laterally and superiorly on the inferior medial border of the scapula to simulate the serratus anterior/lower trapezius force couple.

What is the positive result?

  • The test is considered positive if there is reduction of pain in the “painful arc” and improved range of motion.

Test Accuracy

  • Sensitivity: 81.7%
  • Specificity: 80.8%

References

  1. Clinical Tests for the Musculoskeletal System 3rd Edition.
  2. Dutton’s Orthopaedic Examination, Evaluation, And Intervention 3rd Edition.