The Apprehension Test primarily assesses which structures?

• A. Anterior capsule, inferior GH ligament, or labrum
• B. Posterior capsule, infraspinatus
• C. AC ligament
• D. Rotator cuff tendon

Answer: (A)

The Apprehension Test checks anterior shoulder stability by stressing the structures that limit anterior translation of the humeral head. With the arm abducted to about 90 degrees and externally rotated, the humeral head presses against the front of the joint, loading the anterior capsule and the inferior glenohumeral ligament, with the labrum often involved in anterior instability (Bankart-type injuries). A positive finding—where the patient shows apprehension or fear that the shoulder will dislocate—points to compromise of these anterior stabilizers. The posterior capsule and infraspinatus aren’t the primary structures tested by this maneuver, the AC ligament is about the acromioclavicular joint, and rotator cuff tendons relate more to impingement or tears rather than this specific instability test.