Which contraction does the Hip Abduction Contracture Test aim to assess?

The Hip Abduction Contracture Test specifically aims to assess the tightness of the tensor fascia latae and the iliotibial band. These structures play a crucial role in hip stability and mobility. When the tensor fascia latae and iliotibial band are tight, they can limit the range of motion in the hip, particularly during abduction movements, which is what this test evaluates.

In physical therapy, identifying such contractures is important as they can affect a person's gait and contribute to pain or dysfunction in the hip, knee, or even lower back. This emphasis on assessing the hip's lateral structures underlines the test's focus on the functional implications of tightness in the tensor fascia latae and iliotibial band, making option C the most appropriate choice.