Diagnosis of Subacromial Abrasion.

Last updated Wednesday, January 26, 2005

Criteria for diagnosis

The necessary and sufficient criteria for the diagnosis of subacromial abrasion are:

A. History

  1. Limited function with arm in intermediate positions of elevation

B. Physical examination

  1. Subacromial crepitance which reproduces the function-limiting symptoms, particularly on rotation of the humerus with the arm in intermediate positions of elevations

C. Radiographs

  1. Diagnosis is supported by primary or secondary changes on the undersurface of the coracoacromial arch, such as acromial sclerosis or a traction spur in coracoacromial ligament
  2. Diagnosis is supported by the coexistence of incomplete thickness cuff lesion or full thickness rotator cuff tear.

Disclaimer

This resource has been provided by the University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine as general information only. This information may not apply to a specific patient. Additional information may be found at http://www.orthop.washington.edu or by contacting the UW Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.