What condition is indicated by a positive Hawkins-Kennedy test?

The Hawkins-Kennedy test is specifically designed to assess for shoulder impingement, particularly involving the supraspinatus tendon. A positive result in this test indicates that the supraspinatus tendon is likely being compressed as the arm is moved into a forward flexed position and internally rotated. This compression can result in pain, which is a primary indicator of supraspinatus impingement.

While conditions like shoulder separation, rotator cuff tears, and ulnar nerve injuries can involve the shoulder region and may result in pain, they do not elicit a positive result on the Hawkins-Kennedy test. Shoulder separations typically involve the acromioclavicular joint and have different assessment criteria. Rotator cuff tears may also present differently during testing, often requiring more specific assessments to identify the tear. Ulnar nerve injuries tend to affect the elbow and hand rather than the shoulder joint, making them unrelated to the Hawkins-Kennedy evaluation. Thus, a positive Hawkins-Kennedy test clearly indicates an issue related to the supraspinatus tendon, confirming supraspinatus impingement.