Patte test

The Patte test is a very useful test to selectively assess the shoulder external rotators (infraspinatus and teres minor).

• Required material: No specific material resources are required.

• Procedure: With the shoulder in 90° adduction, 30° anteversion-antepulsion and the elbow at 90°, the evaluator asks the subject to perform active external rotation against resistance.

• Assessment: The test is considered abnormal or positive when any pain or discomfort is evident throughout the manoeuvre. If no pain is present the test is considered normal or negative.

• Remarks: The strength of both sides should be compared.