Hip Muscle Extensibility Evidence: confirmed

Ely's Test (Duncan-Ely) Special Test

Orthopedic Physical Examination & Clinical Assessment Guide

Ely's Test (Duncan-Ely) Orthopedic Special Test

What is it used for?

  • Assessing spasticity or tightness of the Rectus Femoris.

How to Perform

  • Position: Patient lies prone.
  • Action: Examiner passively flexes the patient's knee rapidly towards the buttock.

Interpretation of Results

  • Positive Test: The hip on the same side spontaneously flexes (buttock rises off the table) because the tight rectus femoris pulls the pelvis anteriorly.

Diagnostic Accuracy

  • Sensitivity: 56-59%
  • Specificity: 64-85%

References

  • Magee, D. J. (2021). Orthopedic Physical Assessment.