The break test is used by physical therapists, athletic trainers, and doctors. It gives them information about muscles. A negative break test means the muscle is normal. It's not weak or torn.

This test is done by placing the patient's arm (or leg) in one position. The patient is told to hold the arm in that spot. The therapist puts pressure on the arm to see if it will move with resistance. The examiner uses enough force to overcome the isometric strength of the person.