Empty can (Jobe) test assesses which muscle?

• A. Infraspinatus
• B. Supraspinatus
• C. Subscapularis
• D. Teres minor

Answer: (B)

The test focuses on the supraspinatus by placing the arm in elevation in the scapular plane with internal rotation and then resisting downward pressure. In this position, the supraspinatus is the primary muscle driving initial abduction, while the deltoid’s contribution is minimized, so weakness or pain during resisted-downward force points to supraspinatus involvement. The supraspinatus is also commonly affected in rotator cuff pathology, which is why this test is specifically used to screen for it. The other muscles listed are tested with different movements: infraspinatus and teres minor with external rotation resistance, and subscapularis with internal rotation maneuvers like a lift-off or belly press. So, this maneuver best identifies supraspinatus issues.