Biceps Load Test I

Published July 2, 2026 Read time 2 min read Readers 1

What is the "Biceps Load Test I" used for?

Biceps Load Test I is used to diagnosis of superior labral tears in patients who have anterior shoulder instability associated with Bankart lesions.

The patient is placed supine with the arm abducted to 90 degrees.
The elbow is flexed 90° and the arm is placed in a neutral rotation.
The forearm is supinated and then an anterior apprehension maneuver is performed (external rotation of the arm). If a feeling of instability or anterior shoulder pain occurs, external rotation is stopped.
The patient is then asked to actively flex the forearm at the elbow against resistance by bringing the hand toward the face.
During this maneuver, the patient is asked whether the feeling of instability is improved, unchanged, or worsened.

If the pain and feeling of instability improve, there is no indication of a SLAP lesion.
If the symptoms are unimproved or even worsened, then there is suspicion of a SLAP lesion.
The examiner should note that the forearm should be supinated during the test. Also, the examiner should be at the same level as the patient.

Clinical Tests for the Musculoskeletal System 3rd Edition.
Tennent, Duncan & Beach, William & Meyers, John. (2003). Clinical Sports Medicine Update. A Review of the Special Tests Associated with Shoulder Examination Part II: Laxity, Instability, and Superior Labral Anterior and Posterior (SLAP) Lesions. The American journal of sports medicine. 31. 301-7. 10.1177/03635465030310022601.