FABER

The FABER test, also known as the Patrick's test, is a physical examination maneuver used by healthcare professionals to identify the presence of hip, lumbar, or sacroiliac joint pathology. The name "FABER" is an acronym derived from the movements involved in the test: Flexion, ABduction, and External Rotation of the hip.

Procedure

The FABER test is performed with the patient lying in a supine position. The examiner places the patient's leg into a figure-four position, with the foot of the tested leg resting on the opposite knee. The examiner then gently presses down on the bent knee while stabilizing the opposite hip. Pain elicited during this maneuver can indicate pathology in the hip joint, sacroiliac joint, or lumbar spine.

Interpretation

• Hip Pain: Pain localized to the hip joint may suggest conditions such as hip osteoarthritis or labral tear.
• Sacroiliac Joint Pain: Pain in the sacroiliac region may indicate sacroiliitis or other sacroiliac joint dysfunctions.
• Lumbar Pain: Pain in the lower back may be indicative of lumbar radiculopathy or other lumbar spine issues.

Clinical Significance

The FABER test is a valuable tool in the differential diagnosis of hip, sacroiliac, and lumbar spine pathologies. It helps clinicians narrow down the potential sources of a patient's pain and guides further diagnostic testing or treatment plans.

Related Pages

• Hip osteoarthritis
• Sacroiliitis
• Lumbar radiculopathy
• Physical examination
• Orthopedics
• Physical therapy

Resources

Latest articles - FABER

• Most recent articles
• Ongoing trials

Source: Data courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Since the data might have changed, please query MeSH on FABER for any updates.

‎