Figure 3.

(A) In order to make an accurate diagnosis of the presence or absence of AWS. The physical examination should be performed in a manner that is designed to facilitate the search for the problem. The first step is to gently but maximally extend the arm at the elbow and then gently but maximally abduct the affected arm at the shoulder. The person performing the evaluation both visualizes and palpates for cords in the locations indicated in (B). (B) This figure illustrates the locations (see black lines) in which a cord or cords may be found, including the axilla, down the upper arm from the axilla to and across the antecubital space, and rarely down the forearm to the base of the thumb.

Abbreviation: AWS, axillary web syndrome.