This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Diagnostic test accuracy). The objectives are as follows:

We will identify and review studies evaluating the diagnostic accuracy of defined physical tests, whether applied singly or in combination, for shoulder impingements (subacromial or internal) or local lesions of bursa, rotator cuff or labrum that may accompany impingement, in people whose symptoms and/or history suggest any of these disorders. Such studies will compare the findings of physical tests to those of surgery or other suitable reference tests, as defined below.

We will also examine the physical tests according to whether they are intended to:

• identify impingement in general (or differentiate it from other causes of shoulder pain e.g. ‘frozen shoulder’)

• subcategorise impingement as subacromial outlet impingement (impingement under the acromion process) or internal impingement (impingement within the shoulder joint)

• diagnose lesions of bursa, tendon or glenoid labrum that may be associated with impingement

• form part of a diagnostic package or process and, if so, according to the stages at which they may apply.