Ober's test evaluates iliotibial band flexibility. What indicates a positive Ober's test?

• A. The leg remains abducted and does not drop toward the table.
• B. The leg drops to the table completely.
• C. Pain with internal rotation of the hip.
• D. Inability to flex the knee.

Answer: (A)

Ober's test checks how flexible the iliotibial (IT) band and tensor fasciae latae are by watching what the leg does when you let it come down from an abducted position. If the IT band is tight, it resists moving the thigh inward toward the table, so when you release, the leg stays abducted and does not drop down. That persistence in abduction is a positive finding, indicating IT band tightness. If the IT band is flexible, the leg relaxes and drops toward the table as expected, which is a negative result.

This test isn’t about pain with hip rotation or knee movement. Pain with internal rotation of the hip suggests other hip issues, and an inability to flex the knee isn’t what Ober’s test assesses.