Understanding the Costoclavicular Test (Military Brace Test) Assessment
To detect compression of the neurovascular bundle between the **clavicle** and the **first rib** (Costoclavicular space).
Watch How It's Done
How do I start?
Patient is sitting or standing.
What happens?
The patient is instructed to assume a **military posture** (shoulders drawn down and back). The examiner palpates the **radial pulse** while passively applying a gentle **downward traction** on the patient's arm (distracting the shoulder).
In Plain English
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A **diminution or disappearance of the radial pulse** and/or the reproduction of the patient's neurological symptoms.
Helpful Tip:
This maneuver narrows the costoclavicular space, simulating the position that compresses the bundle in this specific region.
Safety First
This guide is to help you understand what happens in a clinic. Do not try to diagnose yourself. If you have severe pain, swelling, or cannot put weight on your leg, please visit an urgent care center or your doctor immediately.
Other Thoracic Outlet Tests
Allen Test (for TOS)
To detect vascular compression of the **subclavian artery** as it passes under the Pectoralis Minor muscle (Pec Minor Syndrome, or Hyperabduction Syndrome).
Hyperabduction Test (Wright's Test)
To detect vascular compression of the **subclavian artery** due to entrapment under the **Pectoralis Minor tendon** (Pec Minor Syndrome).