Simple Shoulder Test (SST): Measuring Shoulder Function

The Simple Shoulder Test uses twelve yes or no questions to help doctors assess shoulder function. This patient survey tracks daily activities to monitor recovery after an injury or surgery.

Simple Shoulder Test (SST) PDF questionnaire for assessing functional shoulder disability.
SST

Simple Shoulder Test (SST)

The Simple Shoulder Test (SST) is a 12-item survey that evaluates a patient's ability to perform daily activities. Using a 'yes' or 'no' format, it helps clinicians measure functional limitations. It's an efficient way to track shoulder health and recovery outcomes before and after treatment.

Category

Physical health
Mobility
Movement System
Rehabilitation

Disease

Assessment
Rehabilitation
Clinical Measurement

Source

(Lippitt et al., 1993)

Author Name

Lippitt, S.B., Harryman, D.T. & Matsen, F.A. (1993)

What is Simple Shoulder Test (SST)

The Simple Shoulder Test (SST) is a quick way to check how well a patient's shoulder is working. It helps doctors track recovery and function easily. This tool uses twelve straightforward questions to look at a patient's ability to handle daily tasks. It focuses on pain levels plus strength and general range of motion. Patients answer with a simple yes or no, which makes it very easy to finish. The questions cover things like sleeping comfortably, lifting objects, and reaching overhead. This format stops confusion and gives clear data on functional limits. Clinicians value the SST because it takes just a few minutes to complete in a waiting room. It is great for tracking progress before and after surgery. Since patients do it themselves, it saves staff time while providing reliable info to guide treatment plans and improve patient care outcomes.

SST Scoring

The Simple Shoulder Test can be scored using a straightforward calculation based on patient responses. It features 12 questions about daily shoulder function that ask for simple Yes or No answers. For every Yes, you assign one point, while a No gets zero points. You then add these up for a total raw score between 0 and 12. To make comparisons easier, clinicians often turn this number into a percentage by dividing the total by 12 and multiplying by 100. A higher result means the shoulder is working better, giving a clear picture of functional ability without needing complex maths.

View scoring form

Advantages

Outcome tracking

Measures healthcare intervention results systematically.

Efficient collection

Streamlines research data gathering process.

User-friendly

Simple to understand and complete for patients.

Wide applicability

Serves diverse clinical needs effectively.

5
Minutes
12
Questions

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