Lateral Pelvic Obliquity
Definition
An asymmetry where one side of the pelvis sits higher than the other in the frontal plane. Measured as the difference in ASIS height or iliac crest height between left and right sides. Can be structural (true leg length discrepancy, bony asymmetry) or functional (muscle imbalance, habitual posture, compensatory pattern).
Clinical Significance
Lateral pelvic obliquity creates a cascade of compensations: the spine laterally flexes to maintain head-over-pelvis alignment, one hip adducts while the other abducts, and ground reaction forces distribute asymmetrically through the lower extremities. It is associated with unilateral hip pain, IT band syndrome, SI joint dysfunction, and scoliotic curves.
How AKMI Assesses This
AKMI measures iliac crest height bilaterally, ASIS height comparison, and standing frontal plane analysis. The assessment differentiates between structural and functional obliquity through positional testing (seated vs. standing comparison).
Get your pelvis assessed
A biomechanical assessment measures lateral pelvic obliquity and its relationship to the rest of your structural chain. 18 tests, objective data, personalized programming.