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Hawkins-Kennedy Test
Also known as hawkins kennedy, hawkins test.
Checks: Whether the rotator cuff tendons are being pinched under the shoulder blade
What this checks
This checks whether the rotator cuff tendons get nipped in the narrow space under the tip of the shoulder blade when the shoulder is turned inwards. That is a common cause of a catching pain when you reach.
Do not do this test if
you have had a recent significant shoulder injury, you cannot lift the arm at all, the shoulder is very painful at rest or at night, you have pins and needles or weakness spreading down the arm, or you feel unwell with the pain. See a doctor first if any of those apply.
How to do it
Step 1
Raise the arm and bend the elbow to a right angle
- Lift the arm straight in front of you to shoulder height.
- Bend the elbow so the forearm points out to the side, palm down.
Step 2
Support the elbow with your other hand
- Cup the tested elbow in your opposite hand so the shoulder muscles can relax.
- Keep the upper arm level at shoulder height.
Step 3
Slowly rotate the forearm downwards
- Let your other hand guide the forearm down towards the floor, turning the shoulder inwards.
- Move slowly and stop at the first pinch of pain.
Step 4
Note where and when the pain appears
- A sharp pinch at the front or outer shoulder near the end of the movement is the response to look for.
- Compare with the other side.
What your result means
Likely normal
A negative result usually looks like this.
- The shoulder turns in smoothly with no sharp pain.
- Any pulling feeling is mild and eases as soon as you stop.
- Both sides feel similar.
Possible problem
A positive result usually looks like this.
- A sharp pinch or catch at the front or outer shoulder as the forearm turns down.
- The pain is clearly worse than on the other side.
- You instinctively stop or guard the movement.
Tips for a clearer result
Small things that make the test easier to read.
- Keep the upper arm level at shoulder height throughout.
- Let your supporting hand do the work so the shoulder stays relaxed.
- Stop at the first sharp pain rather than pushing through.
How to read this
A positive result may point towards the rotator cuff tendons being irritated or pinched in the shoulder, but it cannot confirm it - other shoulder and neck problems cause similar pain, and only a hands-on assessment can tell you for sure.
This is a guide, not a diagnosis. It cannot rule a problem in or out - a physiotherapist can. If your symptoms are severe, spreading, or you feel unwell, see a doctor.
Points towards
If your result points to a problem, these condition guides are a good place to start reading.
Reproduced your pain?
A positive result is worth getting looked at. Book an online assessment with an HCPC-registered physiotherapist, wherever you are in the UK.
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