Effects of Contralateral Hip Flexion Angle on the Ober Test

The Ober test is an orthopedic evaluation procedure used to assess for tightness of the tensor fascia latae (TFL) and iliotibial band (ITB). Multiple versions of this test have been described using different degrees of contralateral hip joint flexion to stabilize the pelvis. The aim of this study was to analyze the hip range of motion (ROM) in the frontal plane and perceived tension produced during the Ober test using four different angles of contralateral hip flexion prepositioning. The secondary objective was to analyze the differences in the Ober test with different contralateral hip flexion angles according to limb dominance. This cross-sectional study included healthy individuals aged 18 years or older. The Ober test was performed on the right and left leg of each participant with the contralateral hip joint stabilized at 0° flexion, 45° flexion, 90° flexion, and maximal flexion. Hip range of motion in the frontal plane (abduction or adduction) was measured using a digital inclinometer. Three measurements were performed on each limb for every angle of contralateral prepositioning, using the average of the three measurements for statistical analysis. Participants were asked to report the location of any perceived tension and the intensity of tension using a Numeric Rating Scale during the test. Twenty-eight participants (17 men and 11 women) were examined. Significant differences in the Ober test hip ROM in the frontal plane (p0.05) or gender (p>0.05), except for the Ober test at 0° (p