What would an intact shoulder shrug indicate in a neurological exam?

An intact shoulder shrug during a neurological examination indicates normal motor function of the trapezius muscle. The trapezius is responsible for elevating the shoulder girdle, and an effective shrug reflects that the muscle is functioning properly. This muscle is innervated by the spinal accessory nerve (CN XI), which is evaluated during the neurological examination when the patient performs the shrug.

If the shoulder shrug is symmetrical and strong, it suggests that both the muscle and its nerve supply are intact, indicating healthy upper motor neuron function. In the context of this question, this normal presentation serves as an important indicator of the overall integrity of the central and peripheral nervous systems controlling the upper extremities.