Exam

Barlow's Test

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Barlow's Test, Barlow Test, Barlow Maneuver

  • See Also
  1. Galeazzi's Sign
  2. Ortolani Test
  • Indication
  1. Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip evaluation
  • Precautions
  1. Avoid performing Barlow Test forcefully or repeatedly (may worse instability)
  • Mechanism
  1. Attempt to sublux unstable hip
  2. Perform with caution
  3. Examine each hip individually
  • Preparation
  1. Infant lying supine with diaper off
  2. Hips flexed to 90 degrees
  • Technique
  1. Stabilize Pelvis
  2. Place index and middle finger over greater trochanter
  3. Place thumb medially at inner thigh inguinal crease
  4. Gently adduct the hip while applying gentle downward, posterior force
  • Findings
  1. Positive if Hip Clunk felt on exam
    1. Represents dislocation of hip out of acetabulum
  2. Positive if reduced Hip Range of Motion in abduction
    1. Abduction less than 60 degrees OR
    2. Abduction more than 20 degrees difference between sides
  • Resources
  1. Physical Exam Maneuvers: Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (AAFP)
    1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fBq9LaCEOic
  • References
  1. Barlow (1963) Proc R Soc Med 56:804-6 [PubMed]