Thomas Test | Hip Flexibility Test

The Thomas test is used to rule out hip flexor contraction as well as psoas syndrome. Clinically we use this test to help identify factors contributing to hip flexor tightness. How to Perform Thomas Test Position of Patient: The patient should be relaxed in the supine position as the examiner checks for lumbar lordosis (a common predictor of hip flexor tightness). Performance: The examiner will flex the patient’s hips bringing both knees towards the chest. Instruct the patient to hold one knee as you passively extend and lower the hip to be tested. If the tested leg does not reach the table, the test is considered positive for hip flexor shortness. How to Interpret Thomas Test Positive Finding: If the patient’s hip is unable to reach the table with the knee fully extended or flexed, the iliopsoas is considered the key contributor to hip flexor tightness. If the hip reaches the table upon extending the knee, this will suggest tightness of the rectus femoris muscle. Test Accuracy / Reliability / Evidence: κ = .60 (prestandardization) κ = .88 (poststandardization) Source: Cibere J, Thorne A, Bellamy N, et al: Reliability of the hip examination in osteoarthritis: effect of standardization. Arthritis Rheum 2008; 59: pp. 373-381 Gear I Use: 🎥 Canon 70D: 💡 Neewer Lights: 🎤 Rode NTG4 : 🧰 Physical Therapy Tools I Use & Recommend: 🏋️‍♀️ ✅ MedBridge Education for CEUs: 💰 (Save $175 with Promo Code PTProgress) 💡Efficient Therapy Documentation Course ✏️ 📝 Therapy Documentation Templates: 😲 It’s how I save 30-60 minutes a day on documentation ⏰ 📚 For PT Students 🎓 🙋🏽 PT School Interview Guide 🙋🏻‍♀️: 😱Picmonic: 💻 MedBridge Student: (promo code PTPstudent) Interested in Becoming a PT? Get the Interview Guide: 📔NPTE Therapy Ed Guide: ***Disclaimer*** The content found on this channel and any affiliated websites are not considered medical or financial advice. The information presented is for general education and entertainment purposes only. If you need medical attention, seek care from your physician or physical therapist. You agree to indemnify and hold harmless PTProgress, its employees, officers, and independent contractors for any and all injuries, losses, or damages resulting from any claims that arise from misuse of the content presented on this channel or associated websites. Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which help support the channel but does not cost you anything.
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