Which two tests are typically used together to assess tight hip flexors?

• A. Thomas test and Ely's test
• B. Ober's test and Noble's test
• C. Spurling's test and Beevor's sign
• D. Hoover test and Spurling's test

Answer: (A)

When evaluating tight hip flexors, you want to separate the length limits of the iliopsoas from the rectus femoris. The Thomas test does this by having the patient lie supine, bring one knee to the chest, and observe the opposite leg: if the thigh of the tested leg doesn’t lie flat on the table, hip flexor tightness is indicated—most often implicating the iliopsoas. The Ely's test then isolates the rectus femoris by having the patient lie prone and flex the knee; if the hip on that side rises off the table when the knee is flexed, that signals tight rectus femoris. Using these two tests together lets you determine if hip flexor tightness involves the iliopsoas, rectus femoris, or both, guiding targeted stretches or rehab. The other tests listed assess different structures and don’t specifically evaluate hip flexor length.