Schober's test

Last reviewed 07/2021

Schober's test assesses the amount of lumbar flexion. In this test a mark is made at the level of the posterior iliac spine on the vertebral column, i.e. approximately at the level of L5. The examiner then places one finger 5cm below this mark and another finger at about 10cm above this mark. The patient is then instructed to touch his toes. If the increase in distance between the two fingers on the patients spine is less than 5cm then this is indicative of a limitation of lumbar flexion.

This test allows serial measurements for patients with progressive disease to be undertaken.