Which test primarily assesses hip flexor tightness including the iliopsoas?

• A. Thomas Test
• B. Ober's Test
• C. FABER Test
• D. Lachman's Test

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is measuring how long the hip flexors are, with a focus on the iliopsoas. In the Thomas test, the patient lies on the back, one knee pulled to the chest to flatten the spine, and the other leg is allowed to relax on the table. If the extended leg cannot lie flat on the table or the knee cannot extend fully (the thigh doesn’t drop toward the table), that indicates hip flexor tightness, most notably involving the iliopsoas. When the iliopsoas is tight, it resists hip extension and keeps the leg elevated, signaling a positive finding for reduced hip flexor length. The other tests serve different purposes: Ober’s test evaluates IT band/tensor fascia latae tightness; FABER checks for hip joint or soft-tissue limitations; Lachman tests knee ligament stability. So this test is the best choice for detecting hip flexor tightness, including the iliopsoas.