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Varus Stress (Elbow) at 900

Examination type Joint stability, ligamentous laxity
Patient & Body Segment Positioning The patient is sitting upright, with elbow flexed (90 degrees).  Patient does not resist or assist any movement.  It is also recommended that the humerus be in full medial rotation.
Examiner Position The examiner should face the patient while standing on the side of the affected elbow with one hand cupping the elbow (heel of hand on medial side of elbow with fingers on lateral side) for support while the other hand is placed at the patient’s wrist to provide force.
Tissues Being Tested Lateral collateral ligament
Performing the Test Cup the posterior aspect of the patients elbow in one hand and hold the patients wrist in the other.  The hand on the elbow will act as a fulcrum around which the examiner’s other hand will apply force.  With the elbow extended to 90 degrees, force the forearm medially which will place stress on the lateral side of the elbow.
Positive Test Lack of a firm end feel or extra joint opening as compared bilaterally
Interpretation Possible sprain (stretching or even tear) of the lateral collateral ligament
Common errors in performing exam Not enough pressure applied to the wrist to observe opening at the elbow
Factors possibly resulting in misinterpretation Pre-existing joint hyper-mobility
Related tests Varus stress test at 300
References Magee, David J. (2002). Orthopedic Physical Assessment. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier
Links: http://www.aafp.org/afp/20000201/691.html
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