Which statement is true about the Moving Valgus Stress Test?

Which statement is true about the Moving Valgus Stress Test?

• A. It evaluates the ACL.
• B. It is most specific for injury to the Ulnar collateral ligament.
• C. It assesses patellofemoral disorders.
• D. It evaluates the rotator cuff.

Answer: (B)

The Moving Valgus Stress Test specifically targets the ulnar collateral ligament of the elbow. By placing the elbow in about 90 degrees of flexion and applying a valgus force while the elbow moves toward extension, this maneuver reproduces medial elbow pain when the UCL is injured. This makes it particularly specific for detecting UCL injuries, especially in throwing athletes, because other elbow conditions don’t produce the same valgus-provoked pain pattern. It’s not used to assess the ACL, patellofemoral disorders, or the rotator cuff, which involve different joints and structures.

The Moving Valgus Stress Test specifically targets the ulnar collateral ligament of the elbow. By placing the elbow in about 90 degrees of flexion and applying a valgus force while the elbow moves toward extension, this maneuver reproduces medial elbow pain when the UCL is injured. This makes it particularly specific for detecting UCL injuries, especially in throwing athletes, because other elbow conditions don’t produce the same valgus-provoked pain pattern. It’s not used to assess the ACL, patellofemoral disorders, or the rotator cuff, which involve different joints and structures.