Latissimus Dorsi Strength Test

This post will show you how to test the latissimus dorsi muscle for strength as part of shoulder & scapula assessment!
The latissimus dorsi is by far the broadest muscle of the back and a well-developed muscle gives the torso the iconic v-shape. It is responsible for extension, adduction, and internal rotation of the humerus.

To test the latissimus dorsi, ask your patient to elevate the arm to 90° of flexion and put it into scaption. Then you may palpate the muscle and while applying resistance you’re going to ask your patient to extend and medially rotate the arm.

21 OF THE MOST USEFUL ORTHOPAEDIC TESTS IN CLINICAL PRACTICE

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If you are interested in muscle strength assessment of other muscles in the shoulder region, check out our wiki posts below:

• Trapezius Strength Test
• Rhomboid Strength Test
• Serratus Anterior Strength Test

Magee DJ. Orthopedic physical assessment-E-Book. Elsevier Health Sciences; 2014 Mar 25.