assessing abduction
Last reviewed 01/2018
Assessment of abduction requires that the pelvis first be immobilised. This is achieved either by placing one forearm between the iliac spines, or by placing the leg not being assessed over the side of the bed. With the pelvis fixed, the other leg is then abducted from the perpendicular to the pelvis as far as possible. The normal range is 40 degrees. The other leg is then tested.