What is the proximal landmark for the Shoulder Extension test?

• A. Midaxillary thorax.
• B. Lateral greater tubercle.
• C. Midaxillary scapula.
• D. Anterior midaxillary line.

Answer: (A)

In measuring shoulder extension, the proximal reference point should be anchored to a fixed trunk line so the measurement truly reflects motion at the shoulder rather than movement of the chest or shoulder blade. The midaxillary thorax provides that stable reference, staying in place as the arm moves backward. This keeps the stationary arm of the goniometer aligned with a consistent trunk landmark, allowing the examiner to capture the true range of glenohumeral extension without contamination from scapular or trunk motion. Other landmarks would move with the body and skew the reading, whereas the midaxillary thorax remains relatively constant during the movement.