In anti-gravity hip abduction testing using the second method, where is resistance applied?

In anti-gravity hip abduction testing using the second method, where is resistance applied?

• A. Downward on the medial thigh just proximal to the knee.
• B. Upward on the lateral thigh near the knee.
• C. Downward on the lateral thigh just proximal to the knee.
• D. Forward on the tibia.

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is how resistance is directed to isolate the hip abductors during anti-gravity testing. In the second method for hip abduction, you apply a downward force on the medial thigh just above the knee. This specific placement and direction oppose the abductors (gluteus medius and minimus) as they work to pull the leg outward, so the patient must generate more strength to maintain abduction against that resistance. Positioning the resistance medially near the knee also helps stabilize the pelvis and minimize compensations from other muscles. Other options would change which muscles are stressed or could introduce compensations. For example, pushing upward on the lateral thigh would not counter the abductors in the intended way, pushing downward on the lateral thigh targets adductors, and applying a forward force on the tibia mainly challenges knee extensors rather than hip abductors.

The main idea here is how resistance is directed to isolate the hip abductors during anti-gravity testing. In the second method for hip abduction, you apply a downward force on the medial thigh just above the knee. This specific placement and direction oppose the abductors (gluteus medius and minimus) as they work to pull the leg outward, so the patient must generate more strength to maintain abduction against that resistance. Positioning the resistance medially near the knee also helps stabilize the pelvis and minimize compensations from other muscles.

Other options would change which muscles are stressed or could introduce compensations. For example, pushing upward on the lateral thigh would not counter the abductors in the intended way, pushing downward on the lateral thigh targets adductors, and applying a forward force on the tibia mainly challenges knee extensors rather than hip abductors.