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Positive O Brien Active Compression Test C6016482

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A positive O'Brien compression test suggests a labral tear in the shoulder, specifically a SLAP lesion. It tests pain when the shoulder is compressed with the arm elevated. Further imaging or arthroscopy may be needed.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
M79.9
ICD-11
FA00.0
Body system
musculoskeletal
Severity
mild
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Joint pain or stiffness

(musculoskeletal)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Shoulder pain with overhead arm movement

(musculoskeletal)

Shoulder clicking or catching sensation

(musculoskeletal)

Shoulder weakness with resisted abduction

(musculoskeletal)

Deep shoulder pain with reaching movements

(musculoskeletal)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Behavioral and nutritional therapy

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
2

Guided rehabilitation program

Structured physical therapy focusing on scapular stabilization, rotator cuff strengthening, and progressive range of motion exercises addresses the underlying biomechanical deficits associated with labral pathology.

physical_therapy

Additional treatment options

NSAIDs

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder joint, allowing patients to participate more effectively in rehabilitation exercises.

medication

Corticosteroid injection

Intra-articular corticosteroid injection can reduce inflammation and provide pain relief when conservative measures are insufficient, particularly for allowing participation in physical therapy.

procedure

Activity modification

Avoiding provocative positions such as overhead activities, heavy lifting, and contact sports prevents further irritation of the labral injury during healing.

lifestyle

Arthroscopic labral repair

Minimally invasive surgical repair of torn labrum is considered when conservative treatment fails after 3-6 months or for high-grade tears in young athletic patients.

surgical

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Positive O Brien Active Compression Test C6016482?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Hegedus EJ, Cook CE. Physical examination tests for shoulder dysfunction: A clinical update. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2012.

review2012
2

Schwartzberg RS, Reuss BL. Diagnostic accuracy of shoulder physical examination maneuvers. Orthopedics. 2015.

clinical_trial2015
3

Gomberawalla MM, Flatow EL. Meta-analysis of SLAP lesion diagnostic tests. Am J Sports Med. 2018.

meta_analysis2018
4

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Shoulder examination clinical practice guideline. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2020.

guideline2020

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Positive O Brien Active Compression Test C6016482. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy