Trendelenburg Sign
Definition
A clinical test where the patient stands on one leg. A positive Trendelenburg sign occurs when the pelvis on the unsupported side drops below horizontal, indicating gluteus medius insufficiency on the stance leg. Named after Friedrich Trendelenburg, a German surgeon.
Clinical Significance
A positive Trendelenburg indicates inadequate hip abductor function on the stance leg. During gait, this manifests as a lateral trunk shift toward the stance leg (compensated Trendelenburg) or a contralateral pelvic drop (uncompensated Trendelenburg). It is associated with hip pathology, post-surgical weakness, lumbar spine compensation, and increased fall risk.
How AKMI Assesses This
AKMI includes the Trendelenburg test as part of the single-leg stance assessment battery. The assessment measures pelvic drop angle, compensation strategies, and correlates findings with hip ROM and gluteal activation data.
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