Execution
- 1Position the patient side-lying with the test limb uppermost and the lower hip and knee flexed for stability.
- 2Stabilize the pelvis to prevent lateral tilt or rotation.
- 3Abduct and extend the upper hip while keeping the hip in neutral rotation.
- 4Slowly lower the upper limb toward adduction.
- 5Record whether the thigh drops toward the table and compare with the opposite side.
Positive outcome
The test is positive when the upper thigh remains abducted and does not drop toward the table. The classic Ober uses knee flexion, while the modified Ober uses the knee extended and is often easier to interpret. Lateral hip pain during the test should be separated from simple TFL / ITB length restriction.
CommentOber’s test is a length test for TFL / ITB, not a diagnostic test for greater trochanteric pain or ITB syndrome. Pelvic stabilization is the most important procedural element because pelvic drop can create a false negative. The modified Ober version with knee extension is often favored for consistency.
Low Clinical Value