{"id":166985,"date":"2026-07-27T10:08:04","date_gmt":"2026-07-27T10:08:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/?p=166985"},"modified":"2026-08-14T13:41:39","modified_gmt":"2026-08-14T13:41:39","slug":"trapezius-tear-test","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/blog\/trapezius-tear-test\/","title":{"rendered":"Trapezius tear test: How to perform and interpret results"},"content":{"rendered":"        <div id=\"key_takeaways\">\n            <div class=\"header\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Key-Takeaways-Icon.svg\" alt=\"Key Takeaways\" height=\"42\" width=\"42\">\n                                <h3>Key Takeaways<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"list\">\n                                                            <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#3D3D46\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p>The trapezius tear test is a three-part clinical assessment evaluating upper, middle, and lower trapezius function through resisted movement and palpation<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                                                <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#3D3D46\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p>Tears are graded I (mild strain), II (partial tear), or III (complete rupture) &#8211; each grade maps to a distinct treatment and recovery pathway<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                                                <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#3D3D46\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p>Radiating arm pain, neurological changes, or a suspected Grade III tear require specialist referral and MRI confirmation before treatment planning<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                                                <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#3D3D46\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p>Practice management software like Pabau lets clinicians document test findings, grading, and follow-up plans in a single workflow<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    \n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-trapezius-tear-test-what-it-is-and-why-it-matters\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Trapezius tear test: What it is and why it matters<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most clinicians encounter trapezius pain complaints weekly. The challenge is determining severity fast enough to make good treatment decisions on the spot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The trapezius tear test gives you a structured, repeatable assessment that separates a minor strain from a partial or complete tear, without ordering imaging for every presentation. This guide covers the full three-part protocol (upper, middle, and lower trapezius), result interpretation, grading criteria, and documentation practice for musculoskeletal clinicians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-anatomy-of-the-trapezius-what-you-are-actually-testing\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Anatomy of the trapezius: What you are actually testing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The trapezius is a large, diamond-shaped muscle spanning from the base of the skull, across the thoracic spine (T1-T12), and laterally to the scapular spine. Its three functional divisions perform completely different actions, which is why each requires a separate test. Clinicians working in <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/industry\/sports-medicine-software\/\">sports medicine software<\/a>-supported practices will recognize this anatomy as foundational to any upper-body assessment protocol.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Upper trapezius:<\/strong> Elevates and rotates the scapula, extends the neck, and tilts the head to the same side. Origin: occipital bone and nuchal ligament. Insertion: lateral clavicle.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Middle trapezius:<\/strong> Retracts the scapula (draws it toward the spine). Origin: spinous processes C7-T3. Insertion: medial acromion and scapular spine.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lower trapezius:<\/strong> Depresses and upwardly rotates the scapula. Origin: spinous processes T4-T12. Insertion: scapular spine base.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Injury to any one division can destabilize the entire scapulohumeral rhythm. A tear in the upper fibers produces neck and shoulder elevation weakness; a tear in the lower fibers affects overhead reach and scapular control. Accurate anatomical localization before treatment is not optional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-signs-and-symptoms-of-a-trapezius-tear\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs and symptoms of a trapezius tear<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Symptom recognition before testing improves your pre-test probability and helps you interpret borderline findings. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.niams.nih.gov\/health-topics\/sports-injuries\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">NIAMS<\/a>, muscle strains and tears share a recognizable clinical picture but differ in severity and functional limitation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sharp or aching pain localized to the upper back, neck, or shoulder region<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tenderness on palpation of the trapezius belly or its insertions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stiffness and reduced cervical or shoulder range of motion (ROM)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Visible or palpable swelling and bruising in acute Grade II or III presentations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Muscle weakness on resisted shoulder elevation or scapular retraction<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shoulder asymmetry or winging of the scapula at rest<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pain radiating toward the arm (note: this may indicate cervical nerve root involvement and requires differential diagnosis before attributing it to the trapezius alone)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trapezius pain after sleeping, prolonged desk posture, or a sudden eccentric load (e.g. catching a fall) are the most common patient-reported triggers. Onset mechanism informs grading: a gradual onset with no single event usually indicates Grade I; a pop or snap during exertion with immediate weakness suggests Grade II or III.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-how-to-administer-the-trapezius-tear-test\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to administer the trapezius tear test<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The trapezius tear test is a composite assessment, not a single maneuver. It evaluates all three functional parts in sequence, using manual muscle testing (MMT) with standardized patient and examiner positioning. The American Physical Therapy Association, or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.apta.org\/patient-care\/evidence-based-practice-resources\/test-measures\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">APTA<\/a>, recommends standardized positioning and grading for all MMT procedures to ensure inter-rater reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-testing-upper-trapezius-function\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Testing upper trapezius function<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The upper trapezius is tested in the seated position with resisted shoulder elevation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Patient position:<\/strong> Seated upright, arms relaxed at sides, head in neutral.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Examiner position:<\/strong> Standing behind the patient, hands placed over the patient&rsquo;s shoulders (acromioclavicular region).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Procedure:<\/strong> Ask the patient to elevate both shoulders toward the ears as you apply downward resistance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Observation:<\/strong> Note pain reproduction, asymmetry in elevation height, and the ability to hold against resistance. A break in resistance with pain suggests a positive finding on the affected side.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-testing-middle-trapezius-function\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Testing middle trapezius function<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The middle trapezius is tested prone with the arm abducted to approximately 90 degrees and the elbow extended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Patient position:<\/strong> Prone on the examination table, arm abducted to 90 degrees with the thumb pointing upward (horizontal abduction position).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Examiner position:<\/strong> Standing beside the patient, one hand stabilizing the thoracic spine, the other applying downward pressure to the patient&rsquo;s forearm.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Procedure:<\/strong> Ask the patient to lift the arm toward the ceiling while you apply resistance at the distal forearm.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Observation:<\/strong> Weakness, pain on resistance, or inability to hold the position against gravity indicates middle trapezius pathology.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-testing-lower-trapezius-function\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Testing lower trapezius function<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The lower trapezius is tested prone with the arm elevated approximately 120-135 degrees (diagonal arm raise).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Patient position:<\/strong> Prone, arm raised diagonally above the head (roughly 120-135 degrees from the thorax, thumb pointing upward).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Examiner position:<\/strong> Standing beside the patient, applying downward resistance to the distal forearm in the direction that compresses the arm back toward the table.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Procedure:<\/strong> Ask the patient to hold the position against resistance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Observation:<\/strong> Inability to resist, scapular depression loss, or pain in the lower medial scapular region is a positive lower trapezius finding.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-how-to-interpret-the-trapezius-tear-test-results\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to interpret the trapezius tear test results<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Combine MMT findings with palpation, active ROM, and patient-reported pain to assign a grade. The Grade I-III system used across orthopedic and physical therapy literature provides a consistent clinical framework. Applying <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/blog\/manual-muscle-testing\/\">manual muscle testing<\/a> grading consistently improves documentation accuracy and reduces inter-rater variability across your team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:separate;border-spacing:0;border-radius:12px;overflow:hidden;font-size:15px;line-height:1.5;margin:1.5em 0 2em;box-shadow:0 2px 12px rgba(0,0,0,0.08)\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Grade<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Fiber involvement<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Clinical findings<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">MMT result<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Grade I (mild strain)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Microscopic tears, no structural disruption<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Localized tenderness, mild pain on resistance, full or near-full ROM<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Slight weakness; patient completes test with pain<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0;background:#F9FAFB\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Grade II (partial tear)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Partial disruption of fibers<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Moderate pain and swelling, notable ROM restriction, palpable defect possible<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Significant weakness; patient cannot hold against full resistance<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Grade III (complete rupture)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Complete disruption of fibers<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Severe pain, visible deformity or gap, marked swelling and bruising<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">No functional strength; unable to initiate movement against resistance<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A positive trapezius tear test finding does not always confirm a structural tear. Pain reproduction on a single part of the test may indicate muscle guarding, myofascial trigger points, or referred pain from adjacent structures. Grade interpretation must incorporate the full clinical picture.<\/p>\n\n\n        <div id=\"pro_tip\">\n            <div class=\"img\">\n                <svg width=\"42\" height=\"42\" viewBox=\"0 0 42 42\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\"\n                        d=\"M12.6383 19.5238C12.6632 21.2071 12.8734 22.9926 12.0685 24.5523C11.0341 26.8917 8.45076 28.169 7.56292 30.5918C6.63082 33.1061 7.19505 36.185 9.31371 37.9786C10.929 39.5678 13.4183 39.9873 15.6061 39.5463C17.4592 39.073 19.1049 37.8388 19.9706 36.1608C20.781 34.7141 20.7866 32.9904 20.5293 31.3985C20.1006 29.3092 18.3775 27.8705 16.9807 26.362C14.8814 24.1005 14.6684 20.6854 15.595 17.8915C16.4331 15.4768 19.0026 14.2344 20.0425 11.9461C20.7202 10.6769 20.7506 9.20327 20.6068 7.81304C20.1864 5.40098 18.3139 3.23631 15.8716 2.56674C13.9742 2.03969 11.8224 2.30052 10.1739 3.37614C8.70522 4.34688 7.5878 5.86618 7.28356 7.58178C6.76081 9.82981 7.53525 12.2822 9.20307 13.9118C10.7658 15.4741 12.4806 17.2273 12.6383 19.5238Z\"\n                        fill=\"#2BADD4\" \/>\n                    <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\"\n                        d=\"M22.7048 19.8387C22.6822 22.3279 24.4507 24.6234 26.7493 25.4682C28.0531 25.961 29.4725 25.9183 30.7989 25.5487C32.0575 24.9955 33.301 24.2237 34.0069 23.0092C34.8384 21.5811 35.2982 19.8286 34.7832 18.2094C34.3611 16.2507 32.8739 14.6541 31.0275 13.9426C28.6736 12.9595 25.8073 13.7942 24.1719 15.7001C23.2022 16.8366 22.6143 18.3326 22.7048 19.8387Z\"\n                        fill=\"#2BADD4\" \/>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"text\">\n                <h3>Pro Tip<\/h3>\n                <p>Document findings from all three test parts (upper, middle, lower) separately in your clinical notes. A positive upper trapezius finding with negative middle and lower results points to a more localized injury, changes the treatment plan, and supports more accurate ICD-10 coding.<\/p>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    \n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-differential-diagnosis-conditions-that-mimic-a-trapezius-tear\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Differential diagnosis: Conditions that mimic a trapezius tear<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Four conditions consistently create diagnostic confusion when a patient presents with upper back and shoulder pain. Ruling these out protects clinical accuracy. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.orthoinfo.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">OrthoInfo<\/a>, treats differential diagnosis as a prerequisite to treatment planning. Using <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/blog\/ottawa-ankle-rules-calculator\/\">validated clinical decision rules<\/a> like the Ottawa rules brings the same systematic approach to a different joint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:separate;border-spacing:0;border-radius:12px;overflow:hidden;font-size:15px;line-height:1.5;margin:1.5em 0 2em;box-shadow:0 2px 12px rgba(0,0,0,0.08)\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Condition<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Overlapping features<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Distinguishing sign<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Cervical strain<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Neck pain, restricted cervical ROM, upper trapezius tenderness<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Pain reproduced on cervical compression or flexion\/extension, not resisted shoulder elevation<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0;background:#F9FAFB\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Cervical radiculopathy<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Shoulder and arm pain, possible trapezius muscle pain radiating down arm<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Dermatomal arm symptoms, positive Spurling&rsquo;s test, neurological deficit in hand\/arm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Rotator cuff pathology<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Shoulder pain, weakness on overhead reach, scapular instability<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Pain arc 60-120 degrees on shoulder abduction; positive Neer or Hawkins-Kennedy test<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0;background:#F9FAFB\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Trapezius myalgia<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Chronic upper trap pain, tenderness on palpation, stiffness<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Diffuse trigger points, no acute fiber disruption, strength preserved on MMT<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trapezius myalgia (chronic muscular pain without structural tear) is the most commonly misclassified presentation. These patients have preserved MMT strength with significant palpatory tenderness. They need a different treatment pathway to a true Grade II tear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-treatment-pathways-and-torn-trapezius-muscle-recovery-time\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Treatment pathways and torn trapezius muscle recovery time<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Grade assignment at the end of your assessment directly determines the next clinical step. Recovery timelines vary by patient age, activity level, and fitness baseline; present these as ranges when counseling patients. Improving <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/blog\/patient-compliance\/\">patient compliance<\/a> with rehabilitation protocols is easier when patients understand the grade-specific rationale for their treatment plan from the start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:separate;border-spacing:0;border-radius:12px;overflow:hidden;font-size:15px;line-height:1.5;margin:1.5em 0 2em;box-shadow:0 2px 12px rgba(0,0,0,0.08)\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Grade<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">First-line treatment<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Recovery range<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Return to activity<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Grade I<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Rest, ice 48-72 hours, NSAIDs, gentle ROM exercises from day 3-5<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Days to 2 weeks<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Full activity typically within 2 weeks<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0;background:#F9FAFB\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Grade II<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Rest, ice, compression, progressive physical therapy; avoid overhead loading until pain-free<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">3-6 weeks<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Sport\/heavy lifting after 4-8 weeks with clearance<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Grade III<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Specialist referral required; surgical repair considered; post-surgical physical therapy<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Weeks to several months<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Highly variable; determined by specialist<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Grade I and II, progressive return-to-activity protocols should begin with pain-free ROM exercises before loading the muscle. Scapular stabilization work is typically introduced in week 2-3 for Grade II presentations. <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/blog\/physiotherapy-clinic-management-software\/\">Practice management software<\/a> tools that track treatment milestones help practices monitor whether patients are progressing as expected, or need escalation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-when-to-refer-to-a-specialist\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">When to refer to a specialist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not every presentation can be managed conservatively. Clear referral criteria protect both the patient and the clinician. Physical therapy compliance requirements include maintaining documented escalation pathways, so referral decision-making belongs in the patient record.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Suspected Grade III tear:<\/strong> Complete rupture requires MRI confirmation and orthopedic or sports medicine specialist review before any rehabilitation commences.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Neurological symptoms:<\/strong> Radiating arm pain, hand weakness, or paresthesia requires cervical radiculopathy workup before attributing symptoms to the trapezius.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Failed conservative management:<\/strong> Grade I or II that shows no improvement after 4-6 weeks of appropriate physical therapy warrants imaging and specialist review.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Significant structural deformity:<\/strong> Visible gap, scapular winging at rest, or asymmetry suggesting complete fiber disruption.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>High-demand athletes:<\/strong> Any competitive athlete with a Grade II or III injury should be co-managed with a sports medicine physician to assess return-to-competition timelines.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MRI is the gold standard for confirming tear extent, particularly for Grade II-III presentations where surgical decision-making depends on the degree of fiber disruption. Ultrasound offers a faster and more accessible alternative for initial imaging in Grade II cases. MRI is not routinely indicated for Grade I; clinical findings are typically sufficient for conservative management decisions.<\/p>\n\n\n        <div id=\"book_a_demo\">\n            <div class=\"left-side\">\n                <div class=\"logo\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\"\n                        src=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Logo.svg\"\n                        alt=\"Logo\"\n                        loading=\"lazy\"\n                    \/>\n                <\/div>\n\n                <h3 class=\"heading\">\n                    Streamline clinical documentation for every assessment                <\/h3>\n\n                <p class=\"description\">\n                    Pabau helps physical therapy and musculoskeletal practices document assessment findings, assign treatment plans, and trigger follow-up workflows without switching between tools.                <\/p>\n\n                <div class=\"button-group\">\n                    <a href=\"\/book-demo\/\" class=\"btn btn-scale-effect btn-cta-color btn-md\">\n                        <span class=\"btn-text\">Book a demo<\/span>\n                        <div class=\"btn-icon btn-icon-right\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                            <svg\n                                width=\"14\"\n                                height=\"12\"\n                                viewBox=\"0 0 14 12\"\n                                fill=\"none\"\n                                xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\n                            >\n                                <path\n                                    d=\"M0.75 4.77295C0.335786 4.77295 0 5.10874 0 5.52295C0 5.93716 0.335786 6.27295 0.75 6.27295V5.52295V4.77295ZM13.2803 6.05328C13.5732 5.76039 13.5732 5.28551 13.2803 4.99262L8.50736 0.219648C8.21447 -0.073245 7.73959 -0.073245 7.4467 0.219648C7.15381 0.512542 7.15381 0.987415 7.4467 1.28031L11.6893 5.52295L7.4467 9.76559C7.15381 10.0585 7.15381 10.5334 7.4467 10.8263C7.73959 11.1191 8.21447 11.1191 8.50736 10.8263L13.2803 6.05328ZM0.75 5.52295V6.27295L12.75 6.27295V5.52295V4.77295L0.75 4.77295V5.52295Z\"\n                                    fill=\"currentColor\"\n                                ><\/path>\n                            <\/svg>\n                        <\/div>\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"right-side\">\n                <img decoding=\"async\"\n                    src=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Home-Page-Concept-4.webp\"\n                    alt=\"Pabau practice management platform\"\n                    loading=\"lazy\"\n                \/>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        \n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-documenting-the-trapezius-tear-test-in-clinical-notes\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Documenting the trapezius tear test in clinical notes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thorough documentation does three things: it protects the clinician, supports continuity of care, and provides the billing basis for the visit. For musculoskeletal presentations, writing safer clinical notes means capturing the test method, findings by part, grade assigned, and the clinical rationale for treatment decisions. <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/blog\/soap-notes-for-social-work-a-complete-guide-to-writing-effective-clinical-notes\/\">SOAP note documentation frameworks<\/a> apply directly to this assessment format.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Record these elements for every trapezius tear test encounter:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Patient position used for each of the three test parts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Side tested (bilateral or unilateral) and whether findings were asymmetric<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Resistance level tolerated and point at which break occurred<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Palpation findings: location, quality (sharp\/dull), and tenderness scale<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Active ROM measurements pre and post-test if applicable<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grade assigned (I, II, or III) with brief clinical justification<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Referral decision and rationale if escalating<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For ICD-10 coding, traumatic trapezius strains and tears fall under the S-chapter rather than the nontraumatic M62.8x muscle-disorder codes. The applicable family is S16.1, which covers strain of muscle, fascia, and tendon at neck level. This parent code is non-billable without a 7th character for encounter type; use <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/diagnostic-codes\/icd-10-code-s161\/\">S16.1XXA<\/a> for the initial encounter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Confirm the exact subcode and laterality with your billing team, as documentation requirements vary by payer. M62.1 (nontraumatic muscle rupture) applies only when there is no traumatic mechanism, such as a fall or sudden eccentric load. <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/features\/patient-intake-software\/\">Digital clinical forms<\/a> built into your practice management system make it easier to capture all required fields at point of care rather than retrospectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.pabau.com\/cdn\/attachments\/pulse\/content-engine\/blog_post\/trapezius-tear-test\/digital-forms.webp\" alt=\"Digital forms\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Digital forms<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Practices running <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/industry\/physical-therapy-emr\/\">physical therapy EMR<\/a> software can build structured assessment templates that auto-populate the relevant ICD-10 fields, reducing coding errors and keeping records audit-ready. Practice management software like Pabau pairs <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/features\/medical-records-management\/\">structured patient records<\/a> with the appointment and treatment plan, so nothing falls through between assessment and the next session.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-conclusion\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trapezius injuries are undergraded far more often than they are overgraded. A quick shoulder shrug test at the start of a busy day is not a trapezius tear test. The three-part protocol outlined here, combined with systematic palpation and ROM assessment, gives you a defensible, reproducible clinical grade that directly informs treatment decisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For physical therapy and musculoskeletal practices that want to systematize this across their team, Pabau&rsquo;s structured clinical documentation and <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/features\/automated-workflows-software\/\">automated follow-up workflows<\/a> mean every assessment generates a clear record and a triggered next step. If you want to see how it fits your practice&rsquo;s workflow, <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/book-demo\/\">book a demo<\/a> with the team.<\/p>\n\n\n        <div id=\"expert_picks\">\n            <div class=\"header\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Expert-Picks.svg\" alt=\"Continue your research\" height=\"42\" width=\"42\">\n                                <h3>Continue your research<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"content\">\n                                                            <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#54B2D3\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p><strong>Need another neck-region special test in your toolkit?<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/templates\/cervical-torsion-test\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cervical torsion test<\/a> covers a related manual assessment for rotational neck pain that often overlaps with trapezius presentations.<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                                                <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#54B2D3\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p><strong>Working with athletes who need a fitness baseline before clearing return to sport?<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/blog\/yo-yo-intermittent-recovery-test\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Yo-yo intermittent recovery test<\/a> walks through the protocol and scoring for a standard conditioning benchmark.<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                                                <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#54B2D3\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p><strong>Want a broader framework for neck and shoulder complaints?<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/blog\/head-and-neck-assessment\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Head and neck assessment<\/a> covers the complete clinical exam this test sits within.<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    \n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1785140903801\"><h3 class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the trapezius tear test?<\/h3> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The trapezius tear test is a three-part clinical assessment that evaluates the strength and integrity of the upper, middle, and lower trapezius muscle through resisted manual muscle testing (MMT) and palpation. Each part uses standardized patient positioning to isolate the functional division being tested, allowing clinicians to grade the injury from Grade I (mild strain) to Grade III (complete rupture).<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1785140903802\"><h3 class=\"schema-faq-question\">How do you perform a trapezius tear test?<\/h3> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Test the upper trapezius seated with resisted shoulder elevation; test the middle trapezius prone with the arm at 90 degrees and resisted horizontal abduction; test the lower trapezius prone with the arm at 120-135 degrees and resisted diagonal raise. Apply standardized resistance and observe for pain reproduction, weakness, and movement asymmetry on each part.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1785140903803\"><h3 class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is a trapezius tear visible on MRI?<\/h3> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes. MRI is the gold standard for confirming the extent of a trapezius tear, particularly for Grade II and III presentations. It can identify partial fiber disruption, complete rupture, surrounding edema, and hematoma. MRI is not routinely required for Grade I strains, where clinical findings and functional testing are typically sufficient for management decisions.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1785140903804\"><h3 class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the difference between a trapezius strain and a tear?<\/h3> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">A trapezius strain (Grade I) involves microscopic overstretching of fibers without structural disruption, producing pain and mild weakness. A tear (Grade II or III) involves actual fiber disruption, ranging from partial to complete rupture. The key clinical differences are the degree of strength loss on MMT, the presence of a palpable defect, and recovery timeline.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1785140903805\"><h3 class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is trapezius myalgia and how does it differ from a tear?<\/h3> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Trapezius myalgia is chronic muscular pain in the trapezius without structural fiber disruption. Unlike a tear, strength is typically preserved on MMT and there is no acute onset event. Palpation reveals diffuse trigger points rather than a localized tender defect. Treatment focuses on trigger point release, postural correction, and activity modification rather than the rest-and-load-progression used for tears.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1785140903806\"><h3 class=\"schema-faq-question\">When should I see a doctor for trapezius pain?<\/h3> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Seek specialist review for severe pain with inability to use the arm, symptoms radiating down the arm with numbness or weakness in the hand, visible deformity or a palpable gap in the muscle, or pain that does not improve after 4-6 weeks of conservative treatment. These findings may indicate a Grade III tear or cervical nerve root involvement requiring imaging and specialist management.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Trapezius tear test: What it is and why it matters Most clinicians encounter trapezius pain complaints weekly. The challenge is determining severity fast enough to make good treatment decisions on the spot. The trapezius tear test gives you a structured, repeatable assessment that separates a minor strain from a partial or complete tear, without ordering [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":77,"featured_media":167355,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_linkdex":"84","_yoast_wpseo_content_score":"30","_yoast_wpseo_is_cornerstone":"","_yoast_wpseo_keywordsynonyms":"[\"\",\"\",\"\",\"\"]","_yoast_wpseo_focuskw_text_input":"","_seo_original_html":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[4266,1125,32,1127],"tags":[1849,2216,3087,3422],"class_list":["post-166985","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-clinical-guides","category-musculoskeletal-pain-management","category-practice-management-tips","category-sports-medicine","tag-clinical-assessment","tag-musculoskeletal-assessment","tag-physical-therapy-assessment","tag-physical-therapy-special-test"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v28.2 (Yoast SEO v28.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Trapezius tear test: How to perform and interpret results<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The trapezius tear test grades strains as Grade I-III using resisted upper, middle, and lower trapezius testing to guide treatment.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/blog\/trapezius-tear-test\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"fr_FR\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Trapezius tear test: How to perform and interpret results\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The trapezius tear test grades strains as Grade I-III using resisted upper, middle, and lower trapezius testing to guide treatment.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/blog\/trapezius-tear-test\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Pabau\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Pabau\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-07-27T10:08:04+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-08-14T13:41:39+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/trapezius-tear-test.webp\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"630\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/webp\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Katy Piper\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@pabaucrm\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@pabaucrm\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"\u00c9crit par\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Katy Piper\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Dur\u00e9e de lecture estim\u00e9e\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"11 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/pabau.com\\\/fr\\\/blog\\\/trapezius-tear-test\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/pabau.com\\\/fr\\\/blog\\\/trapezius-tear-test\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Katy Piper\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/pabau.com\\\/fr\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/5de22f4ff3ec59b1925ef02dce956d7d\"},\"headline\":\"Trapezius tear test: How to perform and interpret results\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-27T10:08:04+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-08-14T13:41:39+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/pabau.com\\\/fr\\\/blog\\\/trapezius-tear-test\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":2357,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/pabau.com\\\/fr\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/pabau.com\\\/fr\\\/blog\\\/trapezius-tear-test\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/pabau.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/07\\\/trapezius-tear-test.webp\",\"keywords\":[\"Clinical Assessment\",\"Musculoskeletal Assessment\",\"Physical Therapy Assessment\",\"Physical therapy special test\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Clinical guides\",\"Musculoskeletal &amp; 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Each part uses standardized patient positioning to isolate the functional division being tested, allowing clinicians to grade the injury from Grade I (mild strain) to Grade III (complete rupture).","inLanguage":"fr-FR"},"inLanguage":"fr-FR"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/blog\/trapezius-tear-test\/#faq-question-1785140903802","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/blog\/trapezius-tear-test\/#faq-question-1785140903802","name":"How do you perform a trapezius tear test?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Test the upper trapezius seated with resisted shoulder elevation; test the middle trapezius prone with the arm at 90 degrees and resisted horizontal abduction; test the lower trapezius prone with the arm at 120-135 degrees and resisted diagonal raise. Apply standardized resistance and observe for pain reproduction, weakness, and movement asymmetry on each part.","inLanguage":"fr-FR"},"inLanguage":"fr-FR"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/blog\/trapezius-tear-test\/#faq-question-1785140903803","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/blog\/trapezius-tear-test\/#faq-question-1785140903803","name":"Is a trapezius tear visible on MRI?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. MRI is the gold standard for confirming the extent of a trapezius tear, particularly for Grade II and III presentations. It can identify partial fiber disruption, complete rupture, surrounding edema, and hematoma. MRI is not routinely required for Grade I strains, where clinical findings and functional testing are typically sufficient for management decisions.","inLanguage":"fr-FR"},"inLanguage":"fr-FR"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/blog\/trapezius-tear-test\/#faq-question-1785140903804","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/blog\/trapezius-tear-test\/#faq-question-1785140903804","name":"What is the difference between a trapezius strain and a tear?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"A trapezius strain (Grade I) involves microscopic overstretching of fibers without structural disruption, producing pain and mild weakness. A tear (Grade II or III) involves actual fiber disruption, ranging from partial to complete rupture. The key clinical differences are the degree of strength loss on MMT, the presence of a palpable defect, and recovery timeline.","inLanguage":"fr-FR"},"inLanguage":"fr-FR"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/blog\/trapezius-tear-test\/#faq-question-1785140903805","position":5,"url":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/blog\/trapezius-tear-test\/#faq-question-1785140903805","name":"What is trapezius myalgia and how does it differ from a tear?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Trapezius myalgia is chronic muscular pain in the trapezius without structural fiber disruption. Unlike a tear, strength is typically preserved on MMT and there is no acute onset event. Palpation reveals diffuse trigger points rather than a localized tender defect. Treatment focuses on trigger point release, postural correction, and activity modification rather than the rest-and-load-progression used for tears.","inLanguage":"fr-FR"},"inLanguage":"fr-FR"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/blog\/trapezius-tear-test\/#faq-question-1785140903806","position":6,"url":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/blog\/trapezius-tear-test\/#faq-question-1785140903806","name":"When should I see a doctor for trapezius pain?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Seek specialist review for severe pain with inability to use the arm, symptoms radiating down the arm with numbness or weakness in the hand, visible deformity or a palpable gap in the muscle, or pain that does not improve after 4-6 weeks of conservative treatment. These findings may indicate a Grade III tear or cervical nerve root involvement requiring imaging and specialist management.","inLanguage":"fr-FR"},"inLanguage":"fr-FR"}]}},"yoast":{"focus_keyword":"trapezius tear test","seo_title":"Trapezius tear test: How to perform and interpret results","meta_description":"The trapezius tear test grades strains as Grade I-III using resisted upper, middle, and lower trapezius testing to guide treatment.","content_score":"30","is_cornerstone":"","related_keyphrases":[{"keyword":"trapezius muscle strain treatment","score":61},{"keyword":"torn trapezius muscle recovery time","score":56},{"keyword":"trapezius myalgia","score":67}]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/166985","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/77"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=166985"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/166985\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":180659,"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/166985\/revisions\/180659"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/167355"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=166985"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=166985"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=166985"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}