Test: Valgus Stress Test - Knee 0 Degrees

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Background/Purpose

This test assess one plane medial instability. By applying a valgus (abduction) stress on the knee, the medial tibia opens (gaps) away from the femur. This puts stress on the medial compartment of the knee joint including the medial collateral ligament, posterior oblique ligament, Posteromedial capsule, anterior cruciate ligament, posterior cruciate ligament, medial quadriceps expanse, semimembranous muscle.
A failed test in full extension is classified as a major disruption of the knee. If this is the case, there will likely be a failed test with rotary tests of the knee as well.
If the test fails at 20-30 degrees of flexion it could indicate involvement of the following structures:
Medial collateral ligament, Posterior Oblique ligament, Posterior cruciate ligament, Posteromedial capsule.
This test can be performed with radiography as well to obtain an objective gaping measurement.

Procedure

The clinician pushes the knee medially while in a neutral (0 deg) position while the ankle is stabilized in slight lateral rotation. Once this position has been evaluated, the knee is slightly flexed to 20-30 degrees. The test should not have an increased amount of motion relative to the opposite side.
Performed: Unilaterally

Dialog

Medial knee is stressed with lateral tibia movement at 0 and 30 degrees.

Criteria

• No pain
• Symmetric (minimal) gapping

Measurement

0.00

LOINC Code

0

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail