The Biceps Load 2 test is used to identify labral tears (SLAP Lesions)
How to Perform Biceps Load 2 Test
Position of Patient: Position the patient in supine.
Performance: The examiner will grasp the patient’s wrist and elbow and elevate the arm to 120 degrees of abduction and elbow at 90 degrees of flexion. Fully rotate the arm into external rotation and forearm supination.
Ask the patient to flex their elbow while the examiner resists the movement.
How to Interpret Biceps Load 2 Test
Positive Finding: The test is considered positive if the patient experiences pain with maneuver. A positive test may support pathology of the biceps labrum.
Test Accuracy / Reliability / Evidence:
Biceps Load 2 test Sensitivity and Specificity
Sensitivity = 0.55
Specificity = 0.53
+LR = 1.2
– LR = 0.85
Source: Cook C, Beaty S, Kissenberth MJ, et al: Diagnostic accuracy of five orthopedic clinical tests for diagnosis of superior labrum anterior posterior (SLAP) lesions. J Shoulder Elbow Surg 2012; 21: pp. 13-22
Video of Biceps Load 2 Test
The Biceps Load 2 test is used to identify labral tears (SLAP Lesions)
To perform the Biceps Load 2 test, position the patient in supine and stand on the side to be tested. The examiner will hold the patient’s wrist and elbow elevating the arm to 120 degrees of abduction positioning the elbow at 90 degrees of flexion. Fully rotate the arm into external rotation and forearm supination.
Have the patient to flex their elbow while the examiner resists the movement.
The test is considered positive if the patient experiences pain with maneuver. A positive test may support pathology of the superior labrum.
Check out the special test page for more shoulder special tests.
