Unlocking Hip Health: Understanding the Thomas Test with Physio 360.

INTRODUCTION:

When it comes to identifying muscle imbalances and tightness around the hip, the Thomas Test is a go-to orthopaedic assessment used by physiotherapists around the world. At Physio 360, we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge and understanding that this simple yet powerful test is a great first step toward improved mobility and pain-free movement.

What is the Thomas Test?

The Thomas Test is used to assess the flexibility and tightness of the hip flexors, particularly the iliopsoas, rectus femoris, and tensor fasciae latae (TFL) muscles. It’s especially useful in diagnosing hip flexor tightness, which is often a hidden cause of lower back pain, postural issues, and even gait dysfunction.

At Physio 360, our experienced therapists use the Thomas Test not just for diagnosis but also as a way to monitor progress in rehabilitation and flexibility training programs.

How is the Thomas Test Performed?

Here’s a quick breakdown of how the test works:

1. Positioning: The patient lies on their back at the edge of a treatment table.

2. Action: One knee is brought toward the chest and held there by the patient.

3. Observation: The therapist watches the position of the opposite leg:

   • If the thigh lifts off the table, it suggests hip flexor tightness.

   • If the knee extends while the thigh stays down, it points to rectus femoris tightness.

   • If the leg abducts or rotates, TFL or IT band involvement is likely.

At Physio 360, we go beyond the test itself. We use it as a window into your movement patterns, combining it with other assessments to create a personalised treatment plan that targets the root cause of your discomfort.

Why Hip Flexor Tightness Matters.

Modern lifestyles—full of prolonged sitting, poor posture, and limited movement—can cause the hip flexors to become short and stiff. This not only affects how you walk or run but also places stress on your lumbar spine.

Our approach at Physio 360 is holistic. We understand that fixing hip flexor tightness isn’t just about stretching—it’s about balancing strength, mobility, and control throughout the kinetic chain.

What Happens After the Thomas Test?

Once we've identified tight hip flexors or imbalances through the Thomas Test, our Physio 360 team crafts a tailored rehabilitation or mobility plan that may include:

• Manual therapy and soft tissue release

• Dynamic and static stretching routines

• Strengthening exercises for the glutes and core

• Postural correction strategies

We also integrate education into every step—because the more you understand your body, the better your outcomes.

When Should You Get a Thomas Test?

If you’re experiencing any of the following, a Thomas Test at Physio 360 could be a great starting point:

• Lower back discomfort

• Hip stiffness or pain during movement

• Reduced flexibility or hip mobility

• Poor posture from sitting for long hours

Whether you’re an athlete, office worker, or just someone wanting to move better, identifying hip imbalances early is key to long-term joint health.

Book Your Assessment with Physio 360 Today.

At Physio 360, we take pride in combining clinical expertise with compassionate care. The Thomas Test is just one of many tools we use to help you move, feel, and live better.

Ready to take the first step? Contact us today to schedule your comprehensive assessment.

REFERENCE AND RESEARCH ARTICLE :

1.The modified Thomas test is not a valid measure of hip extension unless pelvic tilt is controlledhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4991856/.

2.Reliability of the Thomas test for assessing range of motion about the hiphttps://www.researchgate.net/publication/229071146_Reliability_of_the_Thomas_test_for_assessing_range_of_motion_about_the_hip.