Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

The Neer's test is primarily used to assess which of the following?

1. AC joint injury

2. Biceps-long head

3. IT band syndrome

4. Psoas muscle tightness

The correct answer is: Biceps-long head

The Neer's test is primarily used to assess impingement of the shoulder, specifically aimed at evaluating the subacromial space and specifically relating to the biceps long head tendon and the rotator cuff. During the test, the examiner raises the patient's arm in forward flexion while stabilizing the scapula, which can elicit pain if there is impingement related to the biceps long head or the rotator cuff structures. This test is particularly effective in identifying conditions such as subacromial impingement syndrome or rotator cuff tears, both of which often involve the biceps tendon. The other options, while related to shoulder and hip conditions, do not specifically apply to the Neer's test. AC joint injuries involve a different testing approach, and IT band syndrome and psoas muscle tightness pertain to the lower extremities and hip region, which fall outside the scope of what the Neer's test aims to evaluate. Understanding the specific focus of the Neer's test helps reinforce its role in diagnosing shoulder conditions, particularly those involving the biceps and rotator cuff.