Standing, sitting, or supine
For women, a gown over the non-examined side with the examined area exposed or a halter top is recommended.
For men, removal of the shirt is requested.
Anterior to the patient.
May I place my finger on the front of your shoulder? (or point to the demonstrated area)
With the patient relaxed, locate the greater and lesser tubercles of the humerus. Place your index finger on one tubercle and the ring finger of the same hand on the other tubercle. The middle finger of the same hand is placed in between the other two fingers to palpate the area of the biciptal groove. The tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii is located in this groove. Test the accuracy of your location by having the person contract the biceps brachii muscle isometrically while you provide resistance. This activation tenses this tendon and causes it to move anteriorly and press on the middle finger. Excessive anterior movement of the tendon is restricted by the transverse ligament, which holds the tendon in place.
VH - close up of the anterior skeleton showing the shoulder.