Pelvic Instability
- Posted on: Jan 2 2020
Pelvic Instability
What does a pelvic or innominate rotation mean to a physical therapist? Generally, when someone reports to physical therapy with complaints of low back pain that settles primarily along the belt line we start to look at the pelvis as this is the base of our spine. Below you see the difference between neutral, anterior and posterior tilted pelvis. An anterior or posterior pelvic rotation can lead to problems but pain localized to one side that may travel to the other side that can radiate into the buttocks, possibly hip and groin we start to think one side may be rotated in one direction more than the other. Patients may find limits range of motion in various directions due to pain and the pain usually worsens when maintaining a static posture such as sitting or standing in one spot.
Because the pelvis and sacrum are the base of the spine, a rotation on one side will likely cause imbalance throughout the trunk and lower extremities, causing selected areas to become tighter and others to open. This causes pain and as a result, muscle spasm and limited motion. An innominate rotation can cause one leg to be longer than the other so each time one steps, they are causing increased pressure to that side, possibly creating the problem to worsen.
Physical therapists are trained to identify pelvic rotations, utilize technique to realign the pelvis and develop strengthening programs to help maintain neutral alignment. If you have similar signs and symptoms that have been affecting your quality of life, feel free to make an appointment with us for an evaluation. The quicker you address the issue, the quicker you can get back to the activities you love without pain!
Posted in: Physical Therapy
