Physical Evaluation of the Hip

Hip injuries in tennis players are being diagnosed more frequently in recent years. Part of this may be the result of the newer style of play and part due to increased awareness of non-arthritic hip problems in athletes, in general, as well as enhanced imaging techniques. The hip may be more difficult to examine than other joints as a result of its deep location, thick soft tissue envelope, and the potential for referred pain patterns. Patient history should focus on the location of the pain, mechanism of injury, exacerbating and alleviating factors, prior treatments, and pertinent past medical, family, and social history. Physical examination in the standing, seated, supine, lateral, and prone positions includes gait analysis, range of motion and strength tests, and special tests described in this chapter. When combined with appropriate imaging and diagnostic injection tests, a comprehensive history and physical examination allows the physician to formulate the correct diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment.