The Adson test is a common physical provocative test that healthcare professionals use to help diagnose thoracic outlet syndrome.

Thoracic outlet syndrome is a group of conditions involving the compression of the nerves, arteries, and veins that pass through the space between the collarbone and the first rib.

The Adson test involves a healthcare professional maneuvering a person’s arm slightly outward and backward. The healthcare professional will gently hold the person’s wrist to monitor their radial pulse.

They will then ask the person to extend their neck, so their head is facing slightly upwards, and turn their head towards the symptomatic side of the body. Next, the healthcare professional will ask the person to take a deep breath and hold it.

The healthcare professional will compare the person’s radial pulse before and after they hold their breath. A person may have thoracic outlet syndrome if the healthcare professional notices a marked decrease or disappearance of the radial pulse. The healthcare professional may also perform a comparative test on the other side of the body.

Other common physical provocative tests a healthcare professional may use for diagnosing thoracic outlet syndrome include the Allen test, the Wright test, and the Roos test.

A person may want to speak with a doctor if they experience any symptoms that may indicate thoracic outlet syndrome, such as pain, numbness, and tingling in the neck, shoulder, arms, or hands.