What is pelvic obliquity / unequal leg length?

Pelvic obliquity is the term frequently used to refer to legs of different lengths. Observing the body’s posture while standing and lying down is often enough for the trained eye to spot an imbalance.

What causes pelvic obliquity?

First, one divides an imbalance of the pelvis into unequal leg length that is either functional or structural.

01: Functional unequal leg length

Most cases are to do with a functional pelvis obliquity. This can be resolved by relieving tension in the muscles of the pelvis, buttocks, or back. The uneven traction of the muscles pulls the pelvis into a slight oblique position, causing one leg to appear shorter.
This imbalance can be treated with chiropractic care. Through therapy, the surrounding muscles are reactivated, which results in balanced movement and an improved gait pattern.

Consequences of pelvic obliquity

We know that the body is quite capable of balancing out many small imbalances over a certain period of time. There can be lasting consequences if the obliquity exists over a longer period or is particularly pronounced. Over time, it can lead to lateral curvature of the spine (scoliosis), general back pain, headaches, tension or restricted movement.

How can chiropractic care help me?

Since soft tissue (musculature and fascia) is often responsible for pelvic obliquity, the chiropractor can compensate this imbalance with gentle techniques. Pelvic obliquity can be preventively treated if it is found while displaying no symptoms at all. This way, in our opinion, you can avoid, for example, back pain, leg pains, pulling in the groin, or scoliosis. 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: Functional unequal leg length

This form is rarely seen! It can be caused by an operation, prostheses, bone breaks and fractures in infancy, or a genetic predisposition. This means the bones are different in length or impaired to the point that they prevent a balanced pelvis from forming.
For this, it is common to use insoles for treatment, which compensate for the length difference.
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.

Feel free to come by for a chat!
Kind regards,
Patricia Peer