During hip palpation, which structures are commonly palpated?

• A. Iliac crests
• B. ASIS & PSIS
• C. Greater trochanters
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

During hip palpation you’re mapping surface landmarks that guide the assessment of pelvis and proximal femur. The iliac crests form the top edges of the pelvis and are easy to feel along the flanks. The ASIS (anterior superior iliac spine) marks a prominent forward point on the pelvis, while the PSIS (posterior superior iliac spine) is its rear counterpart near the dimples of the lower back. The greater trochanter is the large lateral bump on the proximal femur, just under the hip abductors’ insertion and near the side of the hip joint.

These landmarks are routinely palpated to establish orientation, assess symmetry and pelvic tilt, and locate the hip joint region for assessment or procedures. Because all of these structures are commonly accessible on a physical exam, the best answer is that all of the above are palpated. Note that in some patients with higher body habitus, palpation of these features can be more challenging, but they remain the standard landmarks to identify.