Question

If someone passes positive to the Obers stretch test, thus having a hyperactive TFL muscle that pulls on and tenses the ITB, what does this do to the knee?

a) It results in knee flexion.
b) It causes knee extension.
c) It leads to lateral knee pain and decreased hip adduction.
d) It has no effect on the knee.

Answer 1

A positive result on the Obers stretch test due to a hyperactive tensor fasciae latae muscle, which tenses the iliotibial band, typically leads to lateral knee pain and decreased hip adduction, not direct knee flexion or extension.

Step-by-step explanation:

When the tensor fasciae latae (TFL) muscle, which pulls on the iliotibial band (ITB), becomes hyperactive, it can lead to several issues at the knee joint. The Obers stretch test is used to asses the tightness of the ITB and TFL muscle. A positive result, indicating tightness, does not directly result in knee flexion or extension. Instead, the hyperactive TFL muscle and the resultant tension in the ITB can contribute to lateral knee pain and diminished hip adduction due to the imbalance it creates in the forces applied to the knee joint. This imbalance may cause the patella to track abnormally and could lead to increased wear on the articulating surfaces of the patella and femur, possibly resulting in arthritis over time. It is important to address this imbalance through proper strengthening exercises for the quadriceps femoris muscle and other surrounding muscle groups.