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Thumb UCL Stress Test
From WikiSM
(Redirected from UCL Stress Test (Thumb))
Other Names
Illustration of how to perform the UCL stress test.[1]
- Thumb Abduction Stress Test
- Thumb MCP Joint Ulnar Collateral Ligament Test
- Valgus stress test thumb
- Valgus stress test UCL
Purpose
- Evaluate the integrity of Ulnar Collateral Ligament (Thumb) at the thumb Metacarpophalangeal Joint
Description
- The patient is seated or standing
- Examiner grasps the thumb at the metacarpal and proximal phalanx maintaining the MCP joint in extension
- The examiner then applies an ulnar stress by abducting the proximal phalanx relative to the metacarpal
- Angle of assessment
- Joint should be assessed in full extension to evaluate both the proper and accessory collateral ligament
- At 30° flexion, primarily stresses the proper collateral ligament
- Comparison should be made to unaffected thumb
- Positive test:
- Increased pain with abduction
- Lack of clear end point
- Laxity compared to other thumb, typically > 30°
Pathology
Evidence
- Unknown
See Also
References
- ↑ Leggit JC et al. Acute finger injuries: Part II. Fractures, dislocations, and thumb injuries. Am Fam Physician. 2006;73(5):827-834