Hip Flexion
Definition
The movement of the thigh toward the trunk, decreasing the angle at the hip joint. Normal hip flexion range is approximately 110-130 degrees. Measured actively (client lifts their own leg) and passively (tester assists). Limited hip flexion restricts squatting depth, stair climbing, and many daily activities.
Clinical Significance
Hip flexion range determines squat depth, deadlift start position, and seated comfort. Restrictions are commonly caused by anterior hip capsule tightness, labral pathology, femoral acetabular impingement (FAI), or posterior hip musculature tension. Hip flexion ROM that is significantly different passively versus actively indicates a motor control deficit rather than a structural limitation. The distinction changes the intervention.
How AKMI Assesses This
AKMI measures hip flexion actively and passively in supine position, tracking degrees and noting any impingement signs (groin pinch, lateral hip pain). Bilateral comparison identifies asymmetry. The measurement is correlated with lumbar spine compensation -- if the lumbar spine flexes before the hip reaches full range, the effective hip flexion is less than measured.
Get your hip assessed
A biomechanical assessment measures hip flexion and its relationship to the rest of your structural chain. 18 tests, objective data, personalized programming.