Understanding the Elbow Varus Stress Test Assessment
To assess the integrity of the **Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL)** (Radial Collateral Ligament) of the elbow.
Watch How It's Done
How do I start?
Patient is supine or sitting. Elbow is flexed 20°-30° (to unlock the olecranon).
What happens?
The examiner stabilizes the patient's humerus and applies a **varus (laterally directed) force** to the forearm, attempting to open the lateral joint line.
In Plain English
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
**Excessive gapping** on the lateral side compared to the unaffected side, reproduction of lateral elbow pain, or a soft/mushy end-feel.
Helpful Tip:
A positive test is often associated with Posterolateral Rotatory Instability (PLRI).
Safety First
This guide is to help you understand what happens in a clinic. Do not try to diagnose yourself. If you have severe pain, swelling, or cannot put weight on your leg, please visit an urgent care center or your doctor immediately.
Other elbow Tests
Wartenberg's Sign
To test for **Ulnar Nerve palsy/weakness**, specifically of the Palmar Interossei, which leads to unopposed abduction of the little finger.
Beighton Score
To quantify **generalized joint hypermobility** (laxity) across the body, which can be a predisposing factor for elbow instability or other injuries.
Elbow Extension Sign
A screening test used to rule out an **intra-articular fracture** (e.g., radial head or olecranon) in an acutely injured elbow.
Elbow Flexion Test
To provoke symptoms associated with **Cubital Tunnel Syndrome** (ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow).