Execution
- 1Position the patient standing with the feet shoulder-width apart.
- 2Palpate both posterior superior iliac spines and marks the midpoint between them at approximately S2.
- 3Mark a second point 10 cm above the S2 mark and a third point 5 cm below it.
- 4Measure the total distance between the upper and lower marks before movement.
- 5Ask the patient to bend forward as far as possible with the knees extended, then remeasures the distance between the marks.
Positive outcome
Abnormal findings: reduced increase in distance during forward bending, indicating reduced lumbar flexion.
Expected measurement- Starting interval (5 cm below to 10 cm above S2): 15 cm
- Threshold for reduced flexion: less than 5 cm increase from the 15 cm baseline
This is a mobility measurement, not a diagnosis of a specific lumbar pathology. Results are affected by landmark accuracy, skin movement, hip contribution, and patient effort, so use it as a baseline and reassessment measure rather than a pathology classifier.
Studies
| Study | Reliability | Sn | Sp | LR+ | LR− |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Macrae & Wright (1969) | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA |
| Miller et al. (1992) | reliability concerns noted | NA | NA | NA | NA |
CommentMagee describes Schober as a way to quantify lumbar flexion, not as a diagnostic test. The method is affected by landmark accuracy, skin movement, hip contribution, and patient effort. Use it as a baseline and reassessment measure rather than as a pathology classifier.
Low Clinical Value