Femoral External Rotation
Definition
The rotational movement of the femur away from the midline of the body. Measured in degrees with the hip at 90 degrees of flexion. Normal range is approximately 40-60 degrees. Excessive external rotation at rest is visible as outward-pointing kneecaps and a toe-out gait pattern.
Clinical Significance
Hip external rotation availability is essential for gait, single-leg stance, and rotational sports. Excessive external rotation with limited internal rotation (the common asymmetry) forces lateral hip loading, contributes to SI joint dysfunction, and creates a toe-out gait that alters knee mechanics. The ratio of internal to external rotation matters more than the absolute value of either.
How AKMI Assesses This
AKMI measures hip external rotation bilaterally in prone position at 90 degrees hip flexion. The value is compared to internal rotation on the same side to calculate the IR:ER ratio. Significant asymmetry between sides suggests a structural pattern (Left AIC, Right BC) rather than isolated tightness.
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A biomechanical assessment measures femoral external rotation and its relationship to the rest of your structural chain. 18 tests, objective data, personalized programming.