Dial Test
Purpose: To assess for laxity of the anterior hip capsule and iliofemoral ligament.
Test Position: Supine.
Performing the Test: Passively roll the leg into full medial and lateral rotation. The test is considered positive if range of motion is greater than 45 degrees and there is no rebound back to neutral.
Diagnostic Accuracy: Unknown specifically, but low evidence.
Importance of Test: The iliofemoral ligament attaches around the AIIS and acetabulum proximally and to the intertrochanteric line distally. With external rotation of the hip in neutral, the iliofemoral ligament and anterior capsule are the limiting structures and are, therefore, being assessed (Neumann). With internal rotation, the end-feel can be assessed for the ischiofemoral ligamanet and external rotator muscles as well. Due to the physical properties of collagen in the ligament and capsule, there is a spring-like aspect to the tissue that has some bounce to it, as long as the tissues are not overstretched, and, thus, lax. This test's results can be more accurate when combined with the results of long-axis femoral distraction, when assessing for laxity.
Note: these tests should only be used by properly trained health care practitioners.
Test Position: Supine.
Performing the Test: Passively roll the leg into full medial and lateral rotation. The test is considered positive if range of motion is greater than 45 degrees and there is no rebound back to neutral.
Diagnostic Accuracy: Unknown specifically, but low evidence.
Importance of Test: The iliofemoral ligament attaches around the AIIS and acetabulum proximally and to the intertrochanteric line distally. With external rotation of the hip in neutral, the iliofemoral ligament and anterior capsule are the limiting structures and are, therefore, being assessed (Neumann). With internal rotation, the end-feel can be assessed for the ischiofemoral ligamanet and external rotator muscles as well. Due to the physical properties of collagen in the ligament and capsule, there is a spring-like aspect to the tissue that has some bounce to it, as long as the tissues are not overstretched, and, thus, lax. This test's results can be more accurate when combined with the results of long-axis femoral distraction, when assessing for laxity.
Note: these tests should only be used by properly trained health care practitioners.
References:
Neumann, Donald. Kinesiology of the Musculoskeletal System: Foundations for Rehabilitation. 2nd edition. St. Louis, MO: Mosby Elsevier, 2010. 474-475. Print.
Neumann, Donald. Kinesiology of the Musculoskeletal System: Foundations for Rehabilitation. 2nd edition. St. Louis, MO: Mosby Elsevier, 2010. 474-475. Print.