Lateral varus stress test (elbow)

Question 1

What does the varus stress test diagnose?

Answer 1

Pathology with the lateral collateral ligament of the elbow

Question 2

What’s the rationale behind the varus stress test?

Answer 2

by gapping the lateral joint line the lateral collateral ligament is put under tension
Pathology may be present if the gapping is larger than the unaffected side or the patient’s symptoms are reproduced

Question 3

What does a positive response identify?

Answer 3

laxity of the lateral collateral ligament

Question 4

Lateral/Varus Stress Test procedure

Answer 4

1) Explain & IC
2) Patient lies face up on plinth, arm slightly abducted and elbow flexed to 20 degrees
3) physio stands between patient trunk & arm, supporting arm just proximal to joint line and forearm by holding near the wrist
4) Apply varus (outwards) force to elbow joint, keeping forearm fixed
5) Observe laxity and patient’s expression for discomfort
6) Compare to other side

Question 5

Positive result for varus stress test

Answer 5

Laxity and / or pain over the lateral collateral ligament of the elbow
suggests instability of the lateral collateral ligament of the elbow

Question 6

Negative result of varus stress test

Answer 6

There is no demonstration of laxity or pain on application of the
test.

Question 7

Result: Laxity and / or pain over the lateral collateral ligament
What does this mean?

Answer 7

instability of the lateral collateral ligament of the elbow.