Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

Ober's test is primarily used to assess which condition?

1. Hip flexor tightness

2. IT band tightness

3. Pelvic instability

4. Labral tear

The correct answer is: IT band tightness

Ober's test is designed to evaluate the flexibility of the iliotibial (IT) band and assess for any tightness in that structure. During the test, the patient is positioned on their side, and the examiner extends the leg backward and allows it to drop toward the examination table. If the leg does not drop to a neutral position, this indicates tightness in the IT band, which can contribute to issues like hip pain or discomfort. The IT band is a thick band of tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh and connects the hip to the knee. Tightness in this band can restrict the movement of the hip joint and may lead to conditions such as iliotibial band friction syndrome. The emphasis of Ober's test specifically on the IT band’s flexibility makes it the primary clinical assessment conducted in this scenario. Other conditions mentioned do not directly pertain to the purpose of Ober's test.