Which test is used to identify IT band tightness leading to lateral patella tracking?

• A. Ober's Test
• B. FABER Test
• C. Thomas Test
• D. Godfrey's Test

Answer: (A)

Tension in the iliotibial band can pull the kneecap laterally as the knee moves, contributing to lateral patellar tracking. The Ober test isolates this issue by placing the leg in a position that lengthens the IT band while the hip abductors relax. The leg is brought into extension and allowed to drop toward the table; if the IT band is tight, the thigh will remain abducted and not drop fully, producing a positive result. This direct response to IT band length makes the Ober test the most specific way to identify IT band tightness that can lead to lateral patellar tracking. Other tests examine different structures—FABER targets hip joint pathology, Thomas assesses hip flexor length, and Godfrey’s test checks posterior cruciate ligament integrity—so they don’t specifically identify IT band tightness related to lateral patellar tracking.