What Is Pelvic Obliquity / Unequal Leg Length
If your legs seem to have different lengths, we often speak of “Pelvic Obliquity” (sometimes also: “Pelvic Tilt”). Observing the body’s posture while standing or lying down is often enough for the trained eye to spot an imbalance.
What Causes Pelvic Obliquity?
First, we need to differentiate between two types of pelvic imbalances: functional and anatomic differences in leg length.
01: Unequal Leg Length – Functional
Most cases we observe fall under the category of “functional pelvic obliquity”. This type of imbalance can result from excessive tension in the muscles of the pelvis, buttocks, or back. The uneven traction of the muscles pulls the pelvis into a slightly oblique position, causing one leg to appear shorter.
This imbalance can be treated with chiropractic care. Through therapy, the surrounding muscles are reactivated, resulting in balanced movement and an improved gait pattern.
Consequences of Pelvic Obliquity
Generally, the body is quite capable of balancing out many small imbalances for a certain period of time. There can be lasting consequences, however, if the obliquity exists over a longer period or is particularly pronounced. Over time, it can lead to a lateral curvature of the spine (scoliosis), general back pain, headaches, painful tension, or restricted movement.
How Can Chiropractic Care Help?
Since soft tissue (musculature and fascia) is often responsible for pelvic obliquity, the chiropractor can help readjust this imbalance with gentle techniques.
If pelvic obliquity is diagnosed before symptoms are present, it can also be addressed with preventive treatments. By doing so, you can minimise the risk factors associated with back pain, leg discomfort, groin strains, and scoliosis, among other issues. Bring your body into balance before it starts to cause pain!
Here is some related reading that may be of interest to anyone going through pregnancy!
02: Unequal Leg Length – Anatomic
This form is rare! It can be caused by an operation, prostheses, bone fractures in infancy, or a genetic predisposition. Due to one or multiple of these factors, the bones exhibit varying lengths or impairment, which makes it harder for the pelvis to be in balance.
Insoles can help compensate for the length difference and are often part of the recommended treatment.
If, however, these causes do not apply to your case, your pelvic obliquity may be resolved with chiropractic care by bringing muscles back into balance.
Author: Patricia Peer
