In anti-gravity MMT for shoulder extension, what is the test position and stabilization?

In anti-gravity MMT for shoulder extension, what is the test position and stabilization?

• A. Test position: prone with arms by the sides and palms facing up. Stabilization: weight of the trunk on the table and clinician stabilizes ipsilateral scapula. Resistance: downward just proximal to the elbow.
• B. Test position: standing with arms by the side; stabilization: weight of the trunk.
• C. Supine with the arm by the side; stabilization: opposite scapula.
• D. Prone with the arm by the side and palms facing down.

Answer: (A)

The test is designed to isolate shoulder extension against gravity by placing the body so gravity helps the motion rather than hinders it, while keeping the motion centered on the glenohumeral joint. Having the patient lie prone with the arm by the side and the forearm in a position that promotes extension (palm facing up) lets the posterior shoulder muscles do the work as gravity tends to pull the arm into extension. Stabilizing the ipsilateral scapula blocks compensatory scapulothoracic movements, ensuring you’re assessing true glenohumeral extension rather than a combined motion. The weight of the trunk provides a stable base so the limb doesn’t collapse, preserving an anti-gravity setup. Resistance is applied just proximal to the elbow, directing the force downward toward the table to challenge the ability to maintain or return to the extended position against gravity.

The test is designed to isolate shoulder extension against gravity by placing the body so gravity helps the motion rather than hinders it, while keeping the motion centered on the glenohumeral joint. Having the patient lie prone with the arm by the side and the forearm in a position that promotes extension (palm facing up) lets the posterior shoulder muscles do the work as gravity tends to pull the arm into extension. Stabilizing the ipsilateral scapula blocks compensatory scapulothoracic movements, ensuring you’re assessing true glenohumeral extension rather than a combined motion. The weight of the trunk provides a stable base so the limb doesn’t collapse, preserving an anti-gravity setup. Resistance is applied just proximal to the elbow, directing the force downward toward the table to challenge the ability to maintain or return to the extended position against gravity.