A self-performed tests that assesses for scalene strain.

  • lateral cervical pain
    • especially during quick inhalation

Patient Position
  • Seated
Examiner Position
Steps of Performance
  1. The patient rotates their head to the affected side and pulls their chin down into the hollow above the clavicle via cervical flexion
  2. Hold this position for 60 seconds
Alternative Methods
  • To counteract pain created by the Scalene Cramp Test, the patient can follow-up with the Scalene Relief Test:
    1. The patient brings their forearm on their symptomatic side up against their forehead
    2. They then protract their ipsilateral shoulder

In the Scalene Cramp Test, the patient’s head position puts pressure on scalene trigger points. The severity of the subsequent pain response can help clarify if there is damage to the scalene muscles.

The Scalene Relief Test relieves tension on the scalene muscles by elevating the clavicles and the first rib.

General

Positives

Trigger point pain

  • Muscle tension
  • Strain

Pertinent Negatives

Neurologic symptoms

  • Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS)
  • Radiculopathy

DATA
TAGS
References
Magee DJ, Manske RC. Chapter 3: Cervical Spine. In: Orthopedic Physical Assessment. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2021:185.
Roeder JO. Scalene Entrapment Syndrome. American Academy of Osteopathy Journal. 1998:25.
Travell TG, Simons DG: Myofascial pain and dysfunction: the trigger point manual, vol. 1, Baltimore, 1983, Williams & Wilkins.
Vizniak NA, Buse M. Evidence-Informed Orthopedic Assessment. Canada: Professional Health Systems Inc.; 2019.

A self-performed tests that assesses for scalene strain.

  • lateral cervical pain
    • especially during quick inhalation

Patient Position
  • Seated
Examiner Position
Steps of Performance
  1. The patient rotates their head to the affected side and pulls their chin down into the hollow above the clavicle via cervical flexion
  2. Hold this position for 60 seconds
Alternative Methods
  • To counteract pain created by the Scalene Cramp Test, the patient can follow-up with the Scalene Relief Test:
    1. The patient brings their forearm on their symptomatic side up against their forehead
    2. They then protract their ipsilateral shoulder

In the Scalene Cramp Test, the patient’s head position puts pressure on scalene trigger points. The severity of the subsequent pain response can help clarify if there is damage to the scalene muscles.

The Scalene Relief Test relieves tension on the scalene muscles by elevating the clavicles and the first rib.

General

Positives

Trigger point pain

  • Muscle tension
  • Strain

Pertinent Negatives

Neurologic symptoms

  • Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS)
  • Radiculopathy