What is the normal capsular pattern for the hip joint?

• A. Internal rotation > Flexion > Abduction = Extension > Other motions
• B. Flexion > Internal rotation > Abduction
• C. Internal rotation < Flexion
• D. Abduction > Flexion > Internal rotation

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that a hip joint capsular pattern shows a predictable order of motion loss due to capsular tightness. In the hip, internal rotation is affected the most, followed by flexion, then abduction, with extension and external rotation being least restricted. So the best choice reflects internal rotation as the most limited, then flexion, then abduction, with extension about as limited as abduction or next least, and other motions even less affected. This pattern helps distinguish true capsular involvement from other causes of stiffness. If a patient showed a different sequence, it would suggest a noncapsular issue rather than the typical capsular pattern.