Which test is most suitable for assessing hip labral pathology in the supine position by applying axial load and internal rotation?

• A. Circumduction Test
• B. Fulcrum Test
• C. Sign of the Buttock
• D. Supine Labrum/Impingement Test

Answer: (C)

Assessing hip labral pathology relies on stressing the joint to provoke the labrum. In this approach the hip is placed supine, the thigh is flexed and adducted, the hip is internally rotated, and an axial load is applied through the femur. This combination compresses the femoral head into the acetabulum and triggers the anterosuperior labrum if a tear or impingement is present, often reproducing deep groin pain.

The test that intentionally uses this exact setup—the supine position with axial load and internal rotation to stress the labrum—is designed to detect labral pathology and impingement in the hip. A positive result is typically pain reproduced in the groin or deep hip region.

Tests that focus on buttock tenderness, fracture stress, or other hip mechanics probe different issues, so they are not as specific for labral tears when the goal is a supine, load-and-rotate provocation.