In FABER test interpretation, what does groin pain versus posterior pelvic pain indicate?

In FABER test interpretation, what does groin pain versus posterior pelvic pain indicate?

• A. Groin pain suggests hip pathology while posterior pelvic pain suggests SI involvement
• B. Groin pain suggests SI involvement while posterior pelvic pain suggests hip pathology
• C. Both indicate lumbar radiculopathy
• D. No diagnostic value

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that where pain is felt during the FABER maneuver helps localize the source of dysfunction. When the leg is moved into flexion, abduction, and external rotation, the hip joint itself is stressed; pain in the groin or anterior thigh during this position points to hip joint pathology (like impingement, arthritis, or labral issues). If the pain is felt in the posterior pelvis or buttock, the sacroiliac joint is being stressed, which suggests SI joint involvement. This pattern helps clinicians distinguish hip joint problems from SI joint problems in patients with groin or buttock pain, though the test isn’t perfect and should be considered alongside other findings.

The key idea is that where pain is felt during the FABER maneuver helps localize the source of dysfunction. When the leg is moved into flexion, abduction, and external rotation, the hip joint itself is stressed; pain in the groin or anterior thigh during this position points to hip joint pathology (like impingement, arthritis, or labral issues). If the pain is felt in the posterior pelvis or buttock, the sacroiliac joint is being stressed, which suggests SI joint involvement. This pattern helps clinicians distinguish hip joint problems from SI joint problems in patients with groin or buttock pain, though the test isn’t perfect and should be considered alongside other findings.