Pectoralis Minor Length Test Reliability and Accuracy
Author Information
Author(s): Lewis Jeremy S, Valentine Rachel E
Primary Institution: Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Hypothesis
The study aims to evaluate the intra-rater reliability and diagnostic accuracy of the pectoralis minor length test.
Conclusion
The pectoralis minor length test shows acceptable reliability but lacks diagnostic accuracy, suggesting caution in its clinical use.
Supporting Evidence
- The test showed excellent intra-rater reliability for both symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects.
- Sensitivity of the test was found to be 100%, but specificity was 0%.
- Mean distances measured were significantly greater than the recommended 2.6 cm, questioning the test's clinical guidelines.
Takeaway
This study looked at a test to check if a muscle in the shoulder is too short. It found that while the test is reliable, it doesn't really help in deciding if someone has a problem.
Methodology
Measurements were taken from 90 subjects (45 with shoulder symptoms and 45 without) using a specific test to measure the distance from the treatment table to the acromion.
Potential Biases
Potential bias was minimized by blinding the assessor and staggering measurements.
Limitations
The study's findings may not apply to all populations, and the test's diagnostic accuracy is questioned.
Participant Demographics
45 subjects with shoulder symptoms (23 females, 22 males) and 45 without symptoms (24 females, 21 males).
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website