Reliability of Goniometric Techniques for Measuring Hip Flexor Length Using the Modified Thomas Test.
Kira Eimiller, Emma Stoddard, Briana Janes and 2 others
PMID 39100940WHAT IT FOUND
In 64 healthy young adults, Modified Thomas Test goniometer measurements of hip flexor length were consistent within and between examiners when pelvic position was controlled.
Key findings
01With neutral lumbopelvic tilt maintained, the same examiner obtained consistent hip extension angle readings, with mean consistency scores of 0.899 and 0.923.
02Different examiners also obtained consistent readings, with mean consistency scores between 0.831 and 0.871.
03The typical variation around repeated measurements was 2.85 degrees.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTs
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What it does not show
The sample was a convenience sample of 64 volunteers, mostly university students and staff, so it may not represent older adults or people with recent injury or active low back pain. Each leg was measured four times, and repeated measurements may have stretched the hip flexors, which could change the angle being measured. The order of testing was not randomized, so order effects could have influenced the reliability results. The study tested consistency of the goniometer reading, not whether the Modified Thomas Test accurately identifies true hip flexor length or clinically important tightness.
Declared interests
The authors declared no conflicts of interest.
The easy way to misread this
Do not read this as proof that the Modified Thomas Test accurately diagnoses hip flexor tightness. The study tested consistency of goniometer readings in 64 healthy young adults when pelvic position was controlled, not diagnostic accuracy.