Elbow Orthopaedic Test: Elbow Valgus Stress

The Elbow Valgus Stress test is a physical examination technique used to assess the integrity of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) in the elbow joint. The MCL is a ligament on the inner side of the elbow joint that provides stability to the joint during valgus stress (a force that pushes the elbow outward). This test is often performed in patients who have experienced elbow trauma or are experiencing elbow pain or instability.

Here is a general procedure for performing the Elbow Valgus Stress test:

1. Ask the patient to sit or lie down with their arm relaxed and extended.
2. Grasp the patient's wrist with one hand and place your other hand on the patient's elbow.
3. Apply a valgus force (a force that pushes the elbow outward) to the patient's elbow while stabilizing the upper arm with your other hand.
4. Observe for any pain or discomfort in the elbow joint and assess for joint instability.
5. Repeat the test with the elbow flexed at a 20-30 degree angle to assess for any change in symptoms.
6. Document your observations, including any pain, discomfort, or joint instability reported by the patient.

The Elbow Valgus Stress test is used to evaluate for medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury or instability. A positive test result is characterized by the presence of pain or joint instability during valgus stress testing. However, it is important to note that a positive test result does not necessarily indicate a complete ligament tear or other elbow pathology, and further diagnostic evaluation may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

A normal result of the Elbow Valgus Stress test is the absence of pain, discomfort, or joint instability during valgus stress testing. This indicates that the medial collateral ligament (MCL) is intact and functioning properly to stabilize the elbow joint.

References:

1. Magee, D. J. (2014). Orthopedic Physical Assessment-E-Book. Elsevier Health Sciences.
2. Hoppenfeld, S., deBoer, P., & Buckley, R. (2018). Surgical exposures in orthopaedics: the anatomic approach. LWW.
3. Dutton, M. (2012). Orthopaedic examination, evaluation, and intervention. McGraw Hill Professional.