What is the main condition assessed in Speed's Test?

Speed's Test is primarily used to evaluate the involvement of the biceps tendon, specifically assessing for tendinopathy or subluxation of the biceps tendon at the shoulder. During this orthopedic test, the patient resists downward pressure while the arm is extended at the elbow and elevated in front of the body. A positive result, indicated by pain or tenderness in the bicipital groove, suggests irritation or inflammation in the biceps tendon or its associated structures.

The positioning and the mechanics involved in Speed's Test specifically target the biceps tendon, making it an effective tool for determining whether the biceps tendon is the source of the patient's shoulder pain. While other conditions associated with shoulder pathologies may be evaluated by different tests, Speed's Test is uniquely focused on biceps tendon involvement.