The Moving Valgus Stress Test is most specific for injury to which ligament?

The Moving Valgus Stress Test is most specific for injury to which ligament?

• A. Radial collateral ligament
• B. Lateral collateral ligament
• C. Anterior cruciate ligament
• D. Ulnar collateral ligament

Answer: (D)

Focusing on the medial elbow, the moving valgus stress test stresses the ulnar collateral ligament, particularly its anterior bundle, which is the primary restraint to valgus stress when the elbow moves from flexion toward extension. In the test, the arm is positioned with the elbow bent around 90 degrees and a valgus force is maintained while the elbow is extended. Reproducing medial elbow pain or a sense of instability during this maneuver strongly points to an injury of the ulnar collateral ligament. The other elbow ligaments aren’t the main players in this test. The radial collateral and other lateral structures resist varus forces on the lateral side, not the valgus stress being applied here. The anterior cruciate ligament is a knee structure and isn’t involved. So the maneuver is best for detecting injury to the ulnar collateral ligament—the medial side of the elbow.

Focusing on the medial elbow, the moving valgus stress test stresses the ulnar collateral ligament, particularly its anterior bundle, which is the primary restraint to valgus stress when the elbow moves from flexion toward extension. In the test, the arm is positioned with the elbow bent around 90 degrees and a valgus force is maintained while the elbow is extended. Reproducing medial elbow pain or a sense of instability during this maneuver strongly points to an injury of the ulnar collateral ligament.

The other elbow ligaments aren’t the main players in this test. The radial collateral and other lateral structures resist varus forces on the lateral side, not the valgus stress being applied here. The anterior cruciate ligament is a knee structure and isn’t involved. So the maneuver is best for detecting injury to the ulnar collateral ligament—the medial side of the elbow.