In previous articles, we have talk about some of the common orthopedic tests of the elbow, knee, and hand. Now we’re going to focus on the hip. In this article, we are going to walk through a few of the most common orthopedic tests of the hip that doctors and physical therapists use to diagnose hip injuries and conditions.
Pelvic Rocking Test
The pelvic rocking test is used to check joint stability in the hip. To perform the test, the patient lies down on their back with knees bent. The patient then rocks their pelvis back, flattening their lower back in the process. After a brief pause, the patient then rocks their pelvis forward and arches their low back in the process. Pain in the area or decreased range of motion can indicate an injury or infection.
Telescoping Test
The telescoping test is used to check for hip dislocations. To perform the test the patient lies down flat on their back. The physical therapist then raises one of the patient’s legs up so that the knee is bent at a 90 degree angle. Then, with one hand on the patient’s knee, and the other grasping the patient’s upper calf, the physical therapist raises the patient’s knee upward, then back down. The physical therapist is looking for laxity of the hip joint.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLK6e5OMAOI
Trendelenburg Sign
The Trendelenburg sign is used to check patients for Trendelenburg gait – an abnormal gait pattern that is caused by weak abductor muscles of the hip. To test for this sign, the patient stands upright with their hands at their sides. Then the patient lifts one leg in front of them, bending the knee at a 90 degree angle. If the pelvis drops on the side opposite to the stance leg during the test, the patient tests positive for Trendelenburg’s sign.
Twin Cities Hip Physical Therapy
OrthoRehab Specialists helps patients in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota with all their physical therapy needs. Our physical therapists have over 25 years of experience treating patients for hip injuries and related conditions. We partner with our patients to develop unique physical therapy exercises to fit their needs. Hip pain can be debilitating and interfere with simple everyday tasks. Physical therapy can help relieve hip pain and increase your range-of-motion. Contact us today at one of our physical therapy clinics (located in Edina and Minneapolis) to schedule your appointment with one of our twin cities rehabilitation specialists.