Which arrangement of elbow stress tests best evaluates the collateral ligaments?

• A. Varus stress test for medial collateral ligament and valgus stress test for lateral collateral ligament
• B. Posterior drawer test for MCL and anterior drawer test for LCL
• C. Valgus stress test for the medial collateral ligament and varus stress test for the lateral collateral ligament
• D. Tinel sign and Phalen maneuver

Answer: (C)

Tests that stress the elbow in valgus and varus directions target the two collateral ligaments that stabilize the joint on the medial and lateral sides. A valgus stress test places a valgus force across the elbow, stressing the medial (ulnar) collateral ligament; a positive result—medial elbow pain or increased medial gapping—suggests MCL injury. A varus stress test applies a varus force, stressing the lateral (radial) collateral ligament; a positive result—lateral elbow pain or instability—suggests LCL injury. Using both tests together is the most direct way to evaluate the integrity of the collateral ligaments. Other tests like Tinel sign and Phalen maneuver are for nerve compression at the wrist, not elbow ligament stability. Drawer-type maneuvers assess different aspects of elbow stability and don’t specifically isolate the collateral ligaments in the typical exam.