In Ober's test interpretation, what does the leg remaining above horizontal indicate?

In Ober's test interpretation, what does the leg remaining above horizontal indicate?

• A. ITB laxity.
• B. ITB/TFL tightness.
• C. Rectus femoris tightness.
• D. Hip flexor weakness.

Answer: (B)

Tightness of the iliotibial band and tensor fasciae latae is what this prompt is assessing. In Ober’s test, the thigh is allowed to drop toward the table after being positioned behind the pelvis. If the iliotibial band and TFL are tight, they resist adduction and extension, so the leg stays elevated and remains above horizontal. If the band is normal in length, the leg drops to or below horizontal, indicating no tight ITB/TFL. This test specifically targets ITB/TFL tightness rather than hip flexor weakness or rectus femoris tightness.

Tightness of the iliotibial band and tensor fasciae latae is what this prompt is assessing. In Ober’s test, the thigh is allowed to drop toward the table after being positioned behind the pelvis. If the iliotibial band and TFL are tight, they resist adduction and extension, so the leg stays elevated and remains above horizontal. If the band is normal in length, the leg drops to or below horizontal, indicating no tight ITB/TFL. This test specifically targets ITB/TFL tightness rather than hip flexor weakness or rectus femoris tightness.