Which set correctly represents normal shoulder ROM values for flexion, extension, internal rotation, and external rotation?

• A. Flexion 150, Extension 50, Internal Rotation 90, External Rotation 90
• B. Flexion 150, Extension 60, Internal Rotation 90, External Rotation 90
• C. Flexion 120, Extension 50, Internal Rotation 90, External Rotation 90
• D. Flexion 170, Extension 50, Internal Rotation 90, External Rotation 90

Answer: (A)

Understanding normal shoulder motion means knowing the typical maximum ranges you expect for each movement. Flexion is lifting the arm forward, extension is moving it back, and rotation values are usually measured with the arm at 90 degrees of abduction, reflecting how far the shoulder can rotate inward and outward.

In many athletic training references, functional flexion is about 150 degrees, with full ROM often cited near 180 degrees. Extension generally around 50 degrees. Internal rotation and external rotation are commonly about 70–90 degrees, and 90 degrees is a standard reference value for each when the arm is set at 90 degrees of abduction.

The set with flexion at 150 degrees, extension at 50 degrees, internal rotation at 90 degrees, and external rotation at 90 degrees aligns with these commonly cited values, making it the best representation of normal shoulder ROM among the options.

The other options differ by having flexion values that are noticeably lower or higher than typical references, which makes them less representative of normal shoulder ROM in standard teaching.