Hip extension ROM: which statement correctly describes the stabilization and alignment?

• A. Position: Supine; Stabilize: Ipsilateral pelvis to prevent posterior tilt; Fulcrum: greater trochanter; Stationary Arm: lateral midline of pelvis; Moving Arm: midline of femur
• B. Position: Prone; Stabilize: Ipsilateral pelvis to prevent anterior tilt; Fulcrum: greater trochanter; Stationary Arm: lateral midline of pelvis; Moving Arm: midline of femur
• C. Position: Prone; Stabilize: Ipsilateral pelvis to prevent posterior tilt; Fulcrum: greater trochanter; Stationary Arm: lateral midline of pelvis; Moving Arm: midline of tibia
• D. Position: Prone; Stabilize: Ipsilateral pelvis w/ one hand to prevent anterior tilt; Fulcrum: greater trochanter; Stationary Arm: lateral midline of pelvis between ASIS and PSIS; Moving Arm: midline of femur

Answer: (D)

Hip extension ROM is all about moving the thigh backward while keeping the pelvis and lower back from tipping or compensating. To do this correctly, have the person in a prone position so the leg can extend without knee or trunk interference. Stabilize the ipsilateral pelvis with one hand to prevent anterior tilt, keeping the pelvis neutral as you move the hip. The goniometer should have its axis over the greater trochanter. The stationary arm should follow the lateral midline of the pelvis, typically along the line between the ASIS and PSIS, and the moving arm should track along the midline of the femur. This setup isolates the hip joint motion and provides a consistent, accurate measurement. Using the tibia as the moving arm would measure knee/tibial motion, and not reflect hip extension alone; stabilizing to prevent anterior tilt is important to avoid pelvic movement that would inflate or deflate the ROM.