The iliofemoral ligament normally prevents the leg from rolling into unlimited external rotation. If this ligament has become insufficient like in the idiopathic focal rotational type of hip instability we find a positive log roll test as shown on the previouspage.
Resistance assessment of the iliofemoral ligament is performed with the patient supine. The degree of resting external rotation is checked first. The knee is captured and an external rotation torque is applied.
Sports related instability can be treated with a procedure where the capsule of the hip is tightened. Instability which is associated with dysplasia (insufficient cover of the femoral head) does not respond well to soft tissue procedures to stabilize the hip joint.
Northern Hip & Groin Institute