Current Section
Varus Stress Test
Varus Stress Test
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Name
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Purpose
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Description
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Sensitivity, Specificity
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Validity, Reliability
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Likelihood Ratio +/-
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Varus Stress Test
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An assessment for one-plane lateral instability (i.e. the tibia moves away from the femur an excessive amount on the lateral aspect of the leg).[1]
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The therapist applies a varus stress at the knee while the ankle is stabilized. The test is first done with the knee in full extension and then with the knee in 20-30 degrees of flexion. 1
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Sensitivity
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K=0[4]
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N/A
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[1] Magee DJ. Orthopedic Physical Assessment: 5th Edition. St. Louis, MO: Saunders Elsevier;2008.
[2] Harilainen A et al. Diagnosis of acute knee ligament injuries: The value of stress radiography compared with clinical examination, stability, under anesthesia and arthroscopic or operative findings. Ann Chir Gynaecol. 1986;75:37-43.
[3] Harilainen A. Evaluation of Knee Instability in Acute Ligamentous Injuries. Ann Chir Gynaecol. 1987; 76: 269-273.
[4] Cleland J. Orthopedic Clinical Examination: An Evidence-Based Approach for Physical Therapists. Carlstadt, NJ: Icon Learning Systems; 2005.
