In the traditional Ober's test, how is the knee positioned?

In the traditional Ober's test, the knee is positioned in a bent or flexed position. This test is used to assess the length of the iliotibial band (IT band) and the tensor fascia lata (TFL) muscle. During the test, the patient lies on their side with the hip being tested positioned in extension and the knee flexed to approximately 90 degrees.

The clinician then stabilizes the pelvis and allows the leg to drop into adduction. If the leg does not fall to the table or remains elevated, it suggests tightness in the IT band or TFL. The bent position of the knee is crucial because it ensures that the test isolates the IT band’s controlled movement without the influence of knee extension, which could lead to false results. Therefore, the proper knee position is essential for accurately assessing flexibility and tightness in this region.