Understanding the Moving Valgus Stress Test Assessment
A dynamic and highly accurate test for diagnosing a partial tear or instability of the **Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL/UCL)** in overhead athletes.
Watch How It's Done
How do I start?
Patient is supine. Shoulder is abducted to 90° and maximally externally rotated. Elbow is flexed fully.
What happens?
While maintaining a constant **valgus stress** and external rotation, the examiner rapidly and smoothly moves the elbow from **full flexion to full extension** (or to about 30° extension) and back.
Clinical Accuracy
100%
75%
Source: O'Driscoll SW, et al. (2005)
In Plain English
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A sudden, sharp **reproduction of pain over the MCL** (medial elbow) that occurs through a specific arc of motion (usually between 70° and 120° of flexion).
Helpful Tip:
The painful arc is the key finding, indicating dynamic MCL insufficiency.
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).