Which test assesses hip abductor strength?

Which test assesses hip abductor strength?

• A. Trendelenburg pelvic tilt test
• B. Romberg balance test
• C. Barlow test
• D. Kernig sign

Answer: (A)

The test focuses on assessing the strength of the hip abductors, primarily the gluteus medius and minimus. When you stand on one leg, these muscles keep the pelvis level. If the hip abductors on the stance leg are weak, the pelvis drops on the side opposite the stance leg, producing a positive Trendelenburg sign. This makes it a direct way to gauge abductor strength and pelvic stability during unilateral stance, which is why it best fits the question. The other tests are for different purposes: balance/proprioception with Romberg, screening for developmental hip instability in infants with the Barlow test, and meningeal irritation with Kernig sign.

The test focuses on assessing the strength of the hip abductors, primarily the gluteus medius and minimus. When you stand on one leg, these muscles keep the pelvis level. If the hip abductors on the stance leg are weak, the pelvis drops on the side opposite the stance leg, producing a positive Trendelenburg sign. This makes it a direct way to gauge abductor strength and pelvic stability during unilateral stance, which is why it best fits the question. The other tests are for different purposes: balance/proprioception with Romberg, screening for developmental hip instability in infants with the Barlow test, and meningeal irritation with Kernig sign.