During shoulder adduction assessment, where is the fulcrum placed?

• A. anterior acromial
• B. posterior acromial
• C. coracoid process
• D. medial border of scapula

Answer: (A)

When you assess shoulder adduction with a goniometer, you want the axis of rotation to line up with the glenohumeral joint as the arm moves toward the body. Placing the fulcrum at the anterior aspect of the acromion provides a stable, easily palpable landmark that closely approximates that rotation path and reduces the influence of scapulothoracic movement on the reading. The anterior acromial site remains relatively consistent during adduction, which helps produce accurate and repeatable measurements. In contrast, placing the axis at the posterior acromial area, the coracoid process, or the medial border of the scapula would shift the axis away from the true glenohumeral rotation or pick up unwanted scapular motion, leading to less reliable results.