Ober's test

System: Muscles, Bones & Joints Signs · All muscles, bones & joints signs

What it is — and how it is elicited

Lying on the side with the upper leg extended and moved backward, the leg fails to drop down to the couch when released.

What a positive finding suggests

Associated with tightness of the iliotibial band and tensor fasciae latae.

◈ Behind the name

Frank Roberts Ober (1882–1960), American orthopaedic surgeon.

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Please note: This page is an educational reference about clinical examination signs. A clinical sign supports — and never replaces — a full clinical evaluation, examination and appropriate testing. A sign being present does not by itself prove a diagnosis, and an absent sign does not rule one out. If you have symptoms that worry you, see a health professional.