Supine Ober's Test: A Physical Examination Maneuver for Evaluating External Snapping Hip

Provocative detection of snapping through physical examination is critical for diagnosing external snapping hip (ESH) and intraoperatively assessing soft tissue release adequacy. The lateral decubitus Ober's test (OT) is commonly used but requires patient repositioning, bringing certain clinical inconveniences. This technical note describes a modified supine OT: patients lie supine with lower extremities extended neutrally. The examiner grasps the affected side's ankle and midcalf, maximally internally rotates/adducts the limb, passively flexes the hip/knee to hyperflexion, and then extends gradually. A positive sign is visualized/palpated snapping/gliding around the greater trochanter during flexion-extension. Compared with classic OT, supine OT offers superior convenience and applicability, which allows for simultaneous bilateral and dynamic assessment without repositioning-particularly during surgical evaluations-and provides a crucial theoretical foundation for managing ESH in the supine position. Additionally, it shortens procedural time and improves comfort for both clinicians and patients. In conclusion, supine OT is a valuable dynamic adjunct for ESH assessment, especially for bilateral conditions, complementing traditional modalities in ESH management.