Constant-Murley Score (CMS): Assessing Shoulder Function

The Constant-Murley Score evaluates shoulder pain and movement to track recovery. Doctors use this combined physical test and questionnaire to monitor patients with shoulder conditions.

Constant-Murley Score (CMS) PDF assessment form for shoulder function
CMS

Constant-Murley Score (CMS)

The Constant-Murley Score (CMS) is a standard tool for assessing shoulder function. It combines subjective reports of pain and daily activities with objective tests for range of motion and strength. This 100-point scale helps clinicians track recovery after surgery, offering a clear picture of a patient's progress.

Category

Physical health
Movement System
Mobility
Rehabilitation

Disease

Assessment
Rehabilitation
Clinical Measurement

Source

(Constant & Murley, 1987)

Author Name

Constant, C.R. & Murley, A.H.G. (1987)

Page Editor

Thijs Sondag

What is Constant-Murley Score (CMS)

The Constant-Murley Score (CMS) is a top choice for checking shoulder health. It helps doctors track recovery after surgery or injury effectively. This 100 point scale mixes subjective reports from patients with objective checks by clinicians. It looks closely at how well the shoulder works during daily tasks. The test breaks down into four main parts. First, it measures pain levels and activities of daily living. Then, it checks range of motion and strength. Higher scores mean better function, so a score near 100 indicates a healthy shoulder without pain. Doctors typically use a spring balance to test power and a goniometer for movement angles. It is quick to do in a clinic and gives clear data on rotator cuff issues or frozen shoulder. This makes it easy to spot progress over time and helps physios plan the right rehab for better lasting results.

CMS Scoring

The Constant Murley Score can be scored using one main approach that combines subjective and objective checks. You will tally points across four distinct sections to get a total out of 100. First, the patient rates their pain levels (15 points) and ability to handle daily activities (20 points). Next, a clinician measures active range of motion (40 points) and abduction strength (25 points). Higher numbers mean better shoulder function. It is often handy to compare the final result against age and gender norms to see how the patient tracks against their peers in a clinical setting.

View scoring form

Advantages

Global standards

Meets international clinical assessment requirements.

Outcome validation

Measures treatment effectiveness through standardised tools.

Outcome tracking

Measures healthcare intervention results systematically.

Reliable data

Provides consistent measurements for clinical research.

10
Minutes
20
Questions

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