Which assessment maneuver can be used to check for hip joint range of motion?

• A. Trendelenburg test.
• B. Faber test.
• C. McMurray's test.
• D. Patellar apprehension test.

Answer: (B)

The Faber test is an effective assessment maneuver used to evaluate hip joint range of motion, as well as to identify any potential hip or sacroiliac joint pathology. During this test, the patient is positioned supine, and the leg is placed in a figure-four position, with the ankle resting on the opposite knee. The clinician then applies gentle downward pressure on the flexed knee while stabilizing the opposite hip. This maneuver helps assess the range of motion of the hip joint and can reveal any limitations or discomfort that may suggest underlying issues such as arthritis, injury, or other pathologies affecting the hip.

The Trendelenburg test is primarily used to assess hip stability and the integrity of the gluteus medius muscle rather than assessing the hip joint's range of motion. McMurray's test is specifically designed to evaluate meniscus integrity in the knee joint, and the patellar apprehension test assesses for patellar instability. Thus, while all are important tests in lower extremity assessment, the Faber test uniquely targets the hip joint range of motion.