Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

Which motor exam tests the ability to flex the hip against resistance?

1. Stork test

2. Trendelenburg test

3. Hip flexor strength test

4. Quadriceps strength test

The correct answer is: Hip flexor strength test

The ability to flex the hip against resistance is specifically evaluated by the hip flexor strength test. This test assesses the strength of the iliopsoas muscle group, which is primarily responsible for hip flexion. During the examination, the patient is instructed to flex their hip while the examiner applies resistance, allowing for a clear determination of the muscle strength in this movement. The significance of identifying hip flexor strength is vital in various clinical settings, particularly in rehabilitation and assessing function in activities that require bending at the hip. In contrast, the other tests focus on different aspects of hip and lower limb function. The stork test evaluates balance and stability rather than isolating hip flexor strength. The Trendelenburg test assesses the integrity of the hip abductors and pelvic stability during weight-bearing, while the quadriceps strength test targets the strength of the quadriceps muscle, which is involved in knee extension rather than hip flexion. Each of these tests has its own specific purpose, emphasizing the importance of the hip flexor strength test for assessing hip flexion capability.