The AC Traction Test is most indicative of which injury?

• A. Rotator cuff tear
• B. AC sprain or costoclavicular ligament
• C. AC joint osteoarthritis
• D. Labral tear

Answer: (B)

The test targets the stability of the acromioclavicular joint by stressing the ligaments that hold the clavicle to the acromion. By applying traction to the arm, you place a pulling force across the AC joint. If the acromioclavicular ligament (and often the costoclavicular ligament in more severe injuries) is damaged, this maneuver reproduces pain and may reveal abnormal movement or excessive mobility at the AC joint. That pattern is most consistent with an AC joint sprain or injury to the stabilizing ligaments around that joint.

Rotator cuff tear, labral tear, and AC joint osteoarthritis involve different structures and produce signs more characteristic of the glenohumeral joint, the labrum, or chronic degenerative changes, rather than acute ligamentous separation at the AC joint.