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Unlocking Hip and Pelvic Pain: Understanding the FABER Test at Physio 360.




INTRODUCTION:

When diagnosing hip, pelvic, or lower back pain, the key lies in accurate assessment. At Physio 360, we use advanced clinical tools and special tests to pinpoint the root cause of discomfort. One such essential test is the FABER Test, a reliable method to evaluate joint and soft tissue function around the hip and pelvis.


What Is the FABER Test?

FABER stands for Flexion, Abduction, and External Rotation—the three movements used to position the leg during the test. It’s also known as the Patrick’s Test and is commonly used in physiotherapy to detect:

  • Hip joint dysfunction

  • Sacroiliac (SI) joint irritation

  • Tight hip flexors or adductors

  • Possible labral issues or arthritic changes

At Physio 360, the FABER Test is a core part of our physical examination, especially for clients with vague or persistent hip, pelvic, or groin pain.


How Is the FABER Test Performed?

Here’s how we perform the FABER Test at Physio 360:

  1. The patient lies in a supine position (on their back).

  2. The physiotherapist places the affected leg into flexion, abduction, and external rotation—forming a figure "4" with the legs.

  3. The foot of the tested leg is placed above the opposite knee.

  4. Gentle downward pressure is applied to the bent knee while stabilising the opposite hip.

Interpretation:

  • Pain in the groin suggests hip joint pathology.

  • Pain in the back or sacrum points to sacroiliac joint dysfunction.

  • Limited movement may indicate tight muscles or joint restrictions.





Why Is the FABER Test Important?

Hip and pelvic pain can originate from various sources, such as muscles, ligaments, nerves, joints, or referred pain from the spine. The FABER Test helps differentiate the problem area, guiding the correct diagnosis and treatment plan.

At Physio 360, we believe in clinical precision. Using tests like FABER ensures that we don’t just treat symptoms—we treat the cause.


Common Conditions Diagnosed Using the FABER Test.

  • Hip labral tears

  • Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)

  • Sacroiliac joint dysfunction

  • Osteoarthritis of the hip

  • Iliopsoas tightness

  • Gluteal or piriformis syndrome

Our expert team at Physio 360 uses this test in combination with other clinical evaluations and imaging (if required) to create a 360-degree view of your musculoskeletal health.


How Physio 360 Approaches Hip & Pelvic Pain.

After a positive FABER Test result, the next steps at Physio 360 may include:

✅ Manual therapy to reduce joint stiffness

✅ Dry needling or taping for muscle release

✅ Strengthening exercises for hip stabilisers

✅ Pelvic alignment correction techniques

✅ Gait and posture analysis

✅ Tailored home exercise programs

Our goal is always fast, functional recovery, so you can return to pain-free movement without delay.





Final Thoughts: Know Your Body, Heal With Confidence.

The FABER Test is a simple but powerful tool that uncovers deep insights into your hip and pelvic health. At Physio 360, we combine this test with advanced physiotherapy care to give you a clear path toward recovery.

If you’re struggling with unexplained hip, lower back, or groin pain, let us help. Book your consultation at Physio 360 today and experience professional care with personal attention.


REFERENCE AND RESEARCH ARTICLE ;

1.THE RELIABILITY OF FABER TEST HIP RANGE OF MOTION MEASUREMENTShttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5159634/.


2.THE RELIABILITY OF FABER TEST HIP RANGE OF MOTION MEASUREMENTShttps://www.researchgate.net/publication/311820585_THE_RELIABILITY_OF_FABER_TEST_HIP_RANGE_OF_MOTION_MEASUREMENTS.


 
 
 

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