Rent Test (Transdeltoid Palpation) Special Test
Orthopedic Physical Examination & Clinical Assessment Guide
What is it used for?
- Palpating Rotator Cuff Tears.
How to Perform
- Position: Arm extended.
- Action: Palpate anterior to the acromion while rotating the arm internally and externally.
Interpretation of Results
- Positive Test: A palpable depression (sulcus) or soft spot on the greater tuberosity indicating a tear.
Diagnostic Accuracy
- Sensitivity: 96%
- Specificity: 97%
Clinical Context & Limitations
The Rent Test (Transdeltoid Palpation) should be considered as one component of a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. No single special test has perfect diagnostic accuracy; thus, clinical decision-making should integrate test results with patient-reported symptoms, mechanism of injury, functional impairment, and relevant imaging.
Clinicians should be aware of potential false-positive results in patients with pain sensitisation, muscle guarding, or poor relaxation. For the Shoulder region, combining the Rent Test (Transdeltoid Palpation) with complementary examination tests significantly improves overall diagnostic confidence.
References
- Magee, D. J. (2021). Orthopedic Physical Assessment.
