Several methods have been devised to estimate shoulder function, none of which is entirely satisfactory. The method described in this article is applicable irrespective of the details of the diagnostic or radiologic abnormalities caused by disease or injury. The method records individual parameters and provides an overall clinical functional assessment. It is accurately reproducible by different observers and is sufficiently sensitive to reveal even small changes in function. The method is easy to perform and requires a minimal amount of time for evaluation of large population groups.