Understanding the Patrick's Test (FABER: Flexion, Abduction, External Rotation) Assessment
To assess for pathology in the **hip joint** (e.g., OA or labral tear) or the **Sacroiliac (SI) joint**.
Watch How It's Done
How do I start?
Patient is supine. The affected leg is placed in the **Figure-4 position** (foot crossed over the opposite knee).
What happens?
The examiner stabilizes the opposite ASIS (Anterior Superior Iliac Spine) and gently applies a **downward pressure** on the medial aspect of the flexed knee.
In Plain English
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
If pain is reproduced in the **anterior hip/groin**, it suggests **Hip Joint** pathology. If pain is reproduced in the **posterior buttock/SI joint**, it suggests **SI Joint** dysfunction.
Helpful Tip:
The inability of the knee to drop below the level of the opposite leg suggests hip tightness or capsular restriction.
Safety First
This guide is to help you understand what happens in a clinic. Do not try to diagnose yourself. If you have severe pain, swelling, or cannot put weight on your leg, please visit an urgent care center or your doctor immediately.
Other Hip/SI Joint Tests
Gaenslen Test
To assess for dysfunction or pathology of the **Sacroiliac (SI) Joint** or hip pathology (less specific).
Posterior Shear Test (or Posterior Thigh Thrust)
To assess for dysfunction of the **Sacroiliac (SI) Joint**, specifically a posterior shearing force.
Trendelenburg Sign
To assess the functional strength of the **Hip Abductors**, primarily the **Gluteus Medius** muscle.