Shoulder Case 10 History/Physical Exam

Clinical presentations vary. Some patients report a sudden pain and/or pop in the anterior shoulder during activity. There is usually a history of sudden pain during elbow flexion against resistance. Others may complain of recurrent pain or soreness during overhead activities. Some may only notice a visible or palpable mass between the shoulder and elbow.

On physical exam, there is swelling or a mass between the shoulder and the elbow anteriorly. There may be an indentation, hollowness, or crepitus near the bicipital groove. Because the short head of the biceps remains attached to the coracoid process, there is usually minimal loss of function, but some weakness in flexion and forearm supination may be elicited.