The Spenc

er
Technique
Valerie Ro
binson, D.
O.
 Review of Anatomy
0 Bones: clavicle, humerus, scapula
0 Joints: sternoclavicular, acromioclavicular,
glenohumeral
 Review of Anatomy
0 Muscles
0 Supraspinatus: abductor
0 Infraspinatus: external rotator
0 Teres minor: external rotator
0 Subscapularis: internal rotator

0 Pectoralis major: adductor

0 Deltoid: flexor, abductor, and extensor
0 Teres major: extensor
0 Latissimus dorsi: extensor and adductor
 Range of Motion
0 Flexion 180
0 Extension 50
0 Abduction 180
0 Adduction 50
0 Internal rotation 90
0 External rotation 90

0 Spencer technique has been proven to improve

range of motion in those with shoulder dysfunction
thus improving ability to perform ADLs
 Background
0 The Spencer Technique was developed in
1915 by Charles H. Spencer, D.O. as an
articulatory technique to increase ROM at the
shoulder. It has been modified and
personalized by many physicians through the
years and even now there are debates on
proper technique.
 Uses
0 The Spencer Technique is useful in diagnosing
and treating some shoulder conditions
0 Improves shoulder mechanics and range of
motion
0 Stretches local tissues, improving lymphatic
and circulatory flow
0 Treat adhesive capsulitis, post-operative or
post-injury myofascial restriction,
bursitis/tendonitis
0 May be performed with the patient lying on
his/her side or sitting up.
 Utilization
0 The Spencer Technique may be utilized as an
articulation or a muscle energy technique.
0 To articulate, gently move shoulder into and
out of Spencer position 8-10 times, coming to
the barrier each time. This is a passive
technique
0 To use muscle energy, move shoulder to the
barrier, have patient actively resist, then
move into new barrier. Perform 3-5 times.
This is an active technique
 The Technique
0 Stage 1: shoulder extension with elbow flexion
0 Stage 2: shoulder and elbow extension
shoulder and elbow flexion
0 Stage 3: abduct to 90, stabilize shoulder, move in
circumduction with compression toward joint
0 Stage 4: abduct to 90, stabilize shoulder, move in
circumduction with traction
0 Stage 5: abduction
0 Stage 6: test internal rotation by placing pts hand
behind back and pulling elbow forward
0 Stage 7: arm traction and deltoid pump. This may
also be used to start treatment.
Demonstration
 References
0 JoAnn Ryan, D.O. Spencer Technique for Shoulder (Articulation).
Lecture notes, October 17, 2007.
0 Lori A. Dolinski, D.O./PhD/MSc. Chapter Six: Upper Extremities.
Handbook of OMT Review 6th ed. 2010: ProMedica Publishing
Company. Pages 73-81
0 Henry M. Seidel, MD et al. Chapter 21 Musculoskeletal System.
Mosbys Guide to Physical Examination 6th Ed. 2006: Mosby Elsevier.
Pages 688-715.
0 JANICE A. KNEBL, DO, MBA et al. Improving functional ability in the
elderly via the Spencer technique, an osteopathic manipulative
treatment: A randomized, controlled trial. JAOA Vol 102, No 7, July
2002 pp 387-396.
0 Anthony G. Chila et al. Approach to the Somatic Component.
Foundations of Osteopathic Medicine. 2010: Lippincott Williams and
Wilkins. Pp 779-782