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Effects of Contralateral Hip Flexion Angle on the Ober Test
César Hidalgo-García1, Alberto Carcasona-Otal1, Mar Hernández-Secorún1
1Unidad de Investigación en Fisioterapia, Faculty of Health Science, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50009, Spain.
Biomed Research International
|December 16, 2022
Summary
The Ober test
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic evaluation
- Biomechanics
- Musculoskeletal assessment
Background:
- The Ober test assesses tensor fascia latae (TFL) and iliotibial band (ITB) tightness.
- Variations exist regarding contralateral hip flexion for pelvic stabilization.
- Optimal positioning for the Ober test requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze hip range of motion (ROM) in the frontal plane during the Ober test.
- To evaluate perceived tension during the Ober test with varying contralateral hip flexion angles.
- To explore differences based on limb dominance.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study with healthy adults (18+ years).
- Ober test performed with contralateral hip flexion at 0°, 45°, 90°, and maximal angles.
- Frontal plane hip ROM measured with a digital inclinometer; tension rated on a Numeric Rating Scale.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in hip ROM (p < 0.01) and perceived tension (p ≤ 0.001) were found with varying contralateral hip flexion.
- Greater contralateral hip flexion led to decreased hip adduction ROM and increased perceived TFL-ITB tension.
- No significant differences observed for limb dominance, except for higher ROM in men at 0° flexion (p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- Contralateral hip flexion significantly influences Ober test results.
- Increased contralateral flexion reduces hip adduction ROM and increases perceived TFL-ITB tension.
- Standardizing contralateral hip flexion is crucial for consistent Ober test interpretation.
