Testing for elbow instability

Abstract

Abstract

Ligament insufficiency of the elbow is often subtle and may be missed. A careful history and high incidence of suspicion is therefore necessary in patients who have had previous trauma or who are at risk of a repetitive type injury such as tennis players. This article describes the tests for instability of the elbow. When instability is suspected but the clinical examination is too painful or difficult, an examination under anaesthesia is an important part of the assessment.