If a patient's leg does not drop to the table during Ober's Test, what does this suggest?

When a patient's leg does not drop to the table during Ober's Test, it suggests that the patient has tight hip abductors. Ober's Test is specifically designed to assess the flexibility of the tensor fasciae latae (TFL) and the iliotibial band (IT band). In a normal test, when the leg is allowed to drop into adduction, it indicates adequate flexibility of these structures. If the leg remains elevated and does not fall to the table, this indicates that the TFL and potentially the IT band are tight, restricting movement and preventing the leg from returning to a neutral or lowered position.

This tightness can be indicative of a variety of issues, such as increased tension in the soft tissues or even compensatory patterns related to other musculoskeletal conditions. By identifying tight hip abductors, the clinician can then develop an appropriate plan for stretching and addressing any functional limitations related to this tightness.