Question

During the modified Thomas Test assessment for your client's right hip, she demonstrates hip abduction in the resting position. Which of the following does this indicate?

A) Tight hip adductors
B) Weak hip abductors
C) Tight hip flexors
D) Weak hip extensors

Answer 1

The client demonstrating hip abduction during the modified Thomas Test assessment for the right hip signifies the presence of tight hip adductors. This result points toward limited flexibility due to the adductors pulling the thigh towards the body's midline.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a client demonstrates hip abduction during the modified Thomas Test assessment for their right hip, it indicates tight hip adductors (Option A). The modified Thomas Test is intended to assess the flexibility of the muscles around the hip, including the hip flexors and the hip extensors. If the thigh moves into abduction (away from the midline of the body) while in the resting position, it typically suggests that the hip adductors, which normally work to pull the thigh towards the body's midline, are tight, limiting the thigh's ability to rest in a neutral position. Thus, upon performing the modified Thomas Test, the observation of hip abduction would be attributed to tight hip adductors, rather than weak hip abductors, tight hip flexors, or weak hip extensors. Understanding the anatomy of the hip joint, such as the involvement of the ball-and-socket joint and supporting ligaments, is important for correctly interpreting the results of this test.