How is strength in the hip flexors generally assessed?

• A. Manual muscle testing while the patient raises their thigh against resistance
• B. Using a dynamometer during extension exercises
• C. Measuring endurance with timed holds
• D. Performing passive range of motion exercises

Answer: (A)

Assessing strength in the hip flexors is effectively accomplished through manual muscle testing, where the patient actively raises their thigh against resistance. This method directly evaluates the strength of the iliopsoas muscle group, which is primarily responsible for hip flexion. During this assessment, the clinician applies resistance while the patient attempts to lift their thigh, allowing for the evaluation of both the strength and endurance of the hip flexors in a functional movement.

Other methods listed focus on different aspects of muscle function or assess different muscle groups entirely. For instance, using a dynamometer primarily evaluates strength during graded exercises, but it does not specifically target the hip flexors in the same functional context. Measuring endurance with timed holds assesses the muscle's ability to sustain contractions over time, rather than its peak strength in a dynamic context. Performing passive range of motion exercises assesses joint mobility rather than muscle strength. Therefore, manual muscle testing remains the most direct and specific method for assessing hip flexor strength.