A positive sulcus sign indicates instability in which joint?

Enhance your PEAT Series 2 Form B Test preparation with structured questions and detailed insights. Understand test formats with explanations and ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

A positive sulcus sign indicates instability in which joint?

Explanation:
The sulcus sign assesses inferior laxity of the shoulder joint itself—the glenohumeral joint. When the arm is pulled downward, a visible indentation (a sulcus) just below the acromion suggests the humeral head can translate downward more than normal. This indicates capsular and ligamentous laxity around the glenohumeral joint, i.e., inferior instability of the shoulder. It’s not indicating instability of the acromioclavicular joint, sternoclavicular joint, or the scapulothoracic articulation, which have their own distinct signs and mechanisms.

The sulcus sign assesses inferior laxity of the shoulder joint itself—the glenohumeral joint. When the arm is pulled downward, a visible indentation (a sulcus) just below the acromion suggests the humeral head can translate downward more than normal. This indicates capsular and ligamentous laxity around the glenohumeral joint, i.e., inferior instability of the shoulder.

It’s not indicating instability of the acromioclavicular joint, sternoclavicular joint, or the scapulothoracic articulation, which have their own distinct signs and mechanisms.

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