In Hip Flexion, what end feel and ROM are expected?

• A. FIRM end feel; 0-120 degrees
• B. SOFT end feel; 0-120 degrees
• C. HARD end feel; 0-120 degrees
• D. SOFT end feel; 0-60 degrees

Answer: (A)

Hip flexion shows a large range of motion with a firm end feel. When you lift the thigh toward the waist with the knee extended, the joint capsule, ligaments (like the iliofemoral ligament), and the surrounding muscles are stretched to their limit, producing a firm resistance rather than a soft or hard stop. The normal ROM for hip flexion is from 0 degrees (neutral) up to about 120 degrees. A soft end feel would come from soft tissue approximation, which isn’t the typical barrier in this position, and a hard end feel would indicate bony contact, which isn’t expected in normal hip flexion. A ROM of only 60 degrees would be abnormally limited for a healthy hip.