Test: Hip Flexion - Manual Testing

Video Link

Background/Purpose

Hip flexion is accomplished with the psoas major and iliacus muscles. The psoas originates on the lumbar vertebrae bodies and transverse processes.
The innervation of the psoas major is L2-4 and the iliacus is L2-3.
Typical range of motion for the hip is 0-120 degrees. <.br> Since the test position is in the seated position, trunk weakness can result in a failed test. This aspect can be reduced by placing the subject in a supine position.
Weakness in the hip flexor may result in recruitment of the sartorious muscle resulting in external hip external rotation and abduction.

Procedure

Subject sits on the table and with the thighs and hands supported and the legs hanging over the edge.
The clinician stands on the side of the tested limb and places a contoured hand over the distal thigh just proximal to the knee.
The clinician gives the instruction to "Lift the leg off the table and don't let me push it down."
Grade 5: Complete ROM and hold against maximal resistance.
Grade 4: Complete ROM and holds against moderate resistance but end point may not be firm.
Grade 3: Completes ROM with no manual resistance.
Grade 2: Completes a partial ROM while supine or side lying.
Garde 1: The examiner can palpate a contractile response. Place patient in partial >60 degrees flexion. Instruction: “Try to bring your knee up to your nose”.
Grade 0: There is no palpable contractile response.

Performed: Unilaterally

Dialog

Seated hip flexion - resisted.

Criteria

• Completes full ROM
• Completes against maximal resistance

Measurement

5.00

LOINC Code

0

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail