Long-Axis Femoral Distraction Test
Purpose: To assess the mobility and laxity of the hip joint.
Test Position: Supine.
Performing the Test: With the patient's hip passively placed in 30 degrees of hip flexion, 30 degrees of abduction, and 15 degrees of lateral rotation, the examiner applies a distraction force by grasping onto the patient's ankle (the knee should be extended). The test is positive for capsular laxity, if there is increased motion and a sense of apprehension. The test is positive for hypomobility, if there is decreased motion and pain relief noted.
Diagnostic Accuracy: Unknown.
Importance of Test: The position of hip flexion, abduction, and lateral rotation is the loose-packed position of the hip, because the ligaments become slackened in this position (even though the joint is most congruent in this position). In this loose-packed position, the examiner can now assess how much motion (excessive or diminished) is available in the hip.
Note: these tests should only be performed by properly trained health care practitioners.
Test Position: Supine.
Performing the Test: With the patient's hip passively placed in 30 degrees of hip flexion, 30 degrees of abduction, and 15 degrees of lateral rotation, the examiner applies a distraction force by grasping onto the patient's ankle (the knee should be extended). The test is positive for capsular laxity, if there is increased motion and a sense of apprehension. The test is positive for hypomobility, if there is decreased motion and pain relief noted.
Diagnostic Accuracy: Unknown.
Importance of Test: The position of hip flexion, abduction, and lateral rotation is the loose-packed position of the hip, because the ligaments become slackened in this position (even though the joint is most congruent in this position). In this loose-packed position, the examiner can now assess how much motion (excessive or diminished) is available in the hip.
Note: these tests should only be performed by properly trained health care practitioners.
