In the costoclavicular syndrome test, what is the position of the shoulder?

In the costoclavicular syndrome test, shoulder positioning is crucial for accurately assessing for potential neurovascular compression. The shoulder is moved down and back to assess for the presence of thoracic outlet syndrome caused by compression of the structures passing between the clavicle and the first rib.

By moving the shoulder down and back, this maneuver increases the distance between the scalene muscles, thereby placing the brachial plexus and subclavian artery in a position where they may be compressed. Observing symptoms such as pain, tingling, or weakness in the upper extremity during this position can indicate positive findings related to thoracic outlet syndrome.

The other options involve shoulder positions that do not effectively target the specific anatomical considerations for costoclavicular syndrome. Raising or adducting the shoulder or protracting it would not duplicate the specific compression test that is characterized by the downward and backward movement of the shoulder. Thus, the chosen answer accurately reflects the correct positioning of the shoulder for this specific test.