(hoo'vĕr )

[Charles F. Hoover, U.S. physician, 1865–1927]

1. A test used in suspected unilateral hysterical paralysis due to a conversion disorder. The examiner places a hand under the heel of the paralyzed leg and asks the patient to raise the normal leg against resistance. In paralysis due to a conversion disorder, the examiner will feel pressure against the hand under the allegedly paralyzed leg. In true paralysis, no pressure will be felt.
2. A physical finding in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease consisting of inward movement of the ribs with inspiration (instead of their slight normal, lateral and superior movement).