FABER test protocol: which movements are performed on the test leg?

FABER test protocol: which movements are performed on the test leg?

• A. Extends, abducts, and externally rotates the test leg.
• B. Flexes, adducts, and internally rotates the test leg.
• C. Abducts, flexes, and externally rotates the test leg.
• D. Flexes, adducts, and externally rotates the test leg.

Answer: (D)

FABER stands for Flexion, Abduction, External Rotation. The test leg is positioned in that exact combination—the hip is flexed, the thigh is abducted away from the midline, and the leg is externally rotated (often with the foot placed on the opposite knee in a figure-4 pose). The examiner then adds a downward pressure to stress the hip and sacroiliac joint, with pain patterns helping distinguish hip pathology from SI joint issues. So the movements performed on the test leg are flexion, abduction, and external rotation. An option listing flexion with adduction would be incorrect because adduction is the opposite of what FABER uses.

FABER stands for Flexion, Abduction, External Rotation. The test leg is positioned in that exact combination—the hip is flexed, the thigh is abducted away from the midline, and the leg is externally rotated (often with the foot placed on the opposite knee in a figure-4 pose). The examiner then adds a downward pressure to stress the hip and sacroiliac joint, with pain patterns helping distinguish hip pathology from SI joint issues. So the movements performed on the test leg are flexion, abduction, and external rotation. An option listing flexion with adduction would be incorrect because adduction is the opposite of what FABER uses.