OPSA Essentials Practice Test

Neer's test targets subacromial impingement by reproducing compression of structures under the acromion as the arm is elevating. By stabilizing the scapula and passively lifting the arm into forward elevation (often with internal rotation), the humeral head is pressed upward into the undersurface of the acromion, narrowing the subacromial space. If the rotator cuff tendons and the subacromial bursa are irritated, this maneuver provokes pain, indicating impingement. This isn’t about rough tests of shoulder joint stability, which rely on different maneuvers that assess the glenohumeral joint, nor is it a strength test for the rotator cuff (that would involve resisted abduction). It also isn’t a test for adhesive capsulitis, which typically presents with a broader, capsular pattern of motion loss rather than focal impingement pain.