Elbow Varus Stress Test

Other Names

• LCL Stress Test
• Varus elbow stress test for radial collateral ligament tear

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Purpose

• Evaluate the integrity of the elbow Lateral Collateral Ligament

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Description

• The patient can be supine, seated or standing
• The elbow is held in sight flexion at 20° with one of the examiners arms on medial side of the elbow
• The other arm holds the wrist and applies a varus stress to the joint
• A positive test
  • Pain or laxity on the affected arm compared to the contralateral limb

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Pathology

• Radial Collateral Ligament Injury
• Proximal Radius Fracture
• Terrible Triad of Elbow

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Evidence

• Unknown

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See Also

• Elbow Pain (Main)
• Elbow Anatomy (Main)
• Physical Exam Elbow

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