Test: Varus Stress Test - Knee 0 Degrees

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Background/Purpose

This test assess one plane lateral instability. By applying a varus (adduction) stress on the knee, the lateral tibia opens (gaps) away from the femur. This puts stress on the lateral compartment of the knee joint including the lateral collateral ligament, posterior oblique ligament, Posteromedial capsule, anterior cruciate ligament, posterior cruciate ligament, biceps femoris 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:
Lateral 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 laterally while in a neutral (0 deg) position while the ankle is stabilized in slight medial 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

Lateral knee is stressed with lateral tibia movement at 0 degrees.

Criteria

• No pain
• Symmetric (minimal) gapping

Measurement

0.00

LOINC Code

0

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail