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Adson's test
System: Muscles, Bones & Joints Signs · All muscles, bones & joints signs
What it is — and how it is elicited
The radial pulse is felt while the patient takes a deep breath, turns the head toward the tested side and extends the neck; disappearance of the pulse is positive.
What a positive finding suggests
Associated with thoracic outlet compression of the subclavian artery, classically by a cervical rib or scalene muscles.
◈ Behind the name
Alfred Washington Adson (1887–1951), American neurosurgeon.
Related signs — Muscles, Bones & Joints Signs
Browse the A section of the A–Z list or return to the Clinical Signs hub.
Please note: This page is an educational reference about clinical examination signs. A clinical sign supports — and never replaces — a full clinical evaluation, examination and appropriate testing. A sign being present does not by itself prove a diagnosis, and an absent sign does not rule one out. If you have symptoms that worry you, see a health professional.