The Dropping Sign primarily assesses the function of which rotator cuff muscle?

• A. Supraspinatus
• B. Subscapularis
• C. Teres Minor
• D. Infraspinatus

Answer: (D)

The Dropping Sign focuses on external rotation strength, which is dominated by the infraspinatus. When the shoulder is positioned to externally rotate and external rotation is held against resistance, a healthy infraspinatus keeps the arm in that position. If the infraspinatus is weak or torn, the arm cannot sustain the external rotation and tends to drop toward internal rotation. Since the other rotator cuff muscles have different primary actions—subscapularis mainly internal rotation, supraspinatus initiates abduction, and teres minor is a smaller external rotator—the Dropping Sign most directly reflects infraspinatus function.