The Hyperabduction Syndrome

The hyperabduction syndrome was described in 1945. This report includes information and experience gained from the study of 52 patients suffering from its consequences and of many others in whom the diagnosis was necessarily considered. The signs and symptoms and age and sex incidence are summarized. Among the most striking findings was the fact that Raynaud's syndrome occurred in 20 of the 52 patients, an incidence far greater than anticipated in the general population. In some patients elimination of the hyperabduction position abolished Raynaud's syndrome. So far as we can determine this relationship has not been previously reported.