What the physician sees during the physical examination, which includes standing posture, gait analysis (watching how you walk), sitting down, and lying down, helps confirm (or rule out) the possible diagnosis. The physical exam will also enable the orthopaedic surgeon to evaluate other important aspects of your hips and legs, including: size and length, strength, range of motion, swelling, reflexes, and skin condition. If you are experiencing pain in your hip joint, your back may be examined because hip pain may actually be the result of problems in the lower spine.