Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

The straight leg raise test is designed to assess which muscle group?

1. Quadriceps

2. Gluteus medius

3. Psoas

4. Hamstrings

The correct answer is: Psoas

The straight leg raise test is primarily utilized to evaluate the function and strength of the hip flexors, with a specific focus on the psoas muscle. This test involves having the patient lie supine while raising one leg straight up without bending the knee. When the leg is raised, the psoas muscle is engaged, and any weakness or restriction can be observed. Hence, in the context of patients presenting with hip or lower back issues, this test is particularly effective in assessing the integrity and strength of the hip flexor group, especially the psoas major, which plays a key role in hip flexion. The other muscle groups listed, like the quadriceps, gluteus medius, and hamstrings, do have their own distinct functions and are involved in different movements assessed through separate tests. The quadriceps primarily facilitate knee extension, the gluteus medius is mainly responsible for hip abduction and stabilization, while the hamstrings primarily engage in knee flexion. Therefore, the straight leg raise test specifically targets the hip flexors, making the psoas the correct association for the question presented.