Posterior Pelvic Tilt
Definition
A postural position where the pelvis tucks under, with the PSIS dropping below normal alignment. The lumbar curve flattens or reverses. Less common than anterior pelvic tilt in the general population, but frequently seen in prolonged sitting populations and older adults.
Clinical Significance
Posterior tilt reduces lumbar lordosis, increasing disc compression anteriorly while unloading posterior elements. It is associated with hamstring dominance over hip flexor function, reduced hip flexion range, and a flat-back posture that limits shock absorption during gait and running. Chronic posterior tilt can contribute to disc herniations at L4-L5 and L5-S1.
How AKMI Assesses This
AKMI measures pelvic tilt angle using the same ASIS/PSIS landmark protocol. Posterior tilt is identified when the tilt angle falls below the 6-degree minimum. The assessment cross-references with thoracic kyphosis and hamstring length to determine the compensatory chain.
Get your pelvis assessed
A biomechanical assessment measures posterior pelvic tilt and its relationship to the rest of your structural chain. 18 tests, objective data, personalized programming.