Functional Relationships of the Hips and Pelvis

The following should be a review of kinesiology from PTA 132. Please take some time to review normal and abnormal gait including ROM at the hip and pelvis for gait.

Pelvic motion in frontal and transverse planes is named by what occurs at the unsupported side of the pelvis

Hip and pelvic motion influences stresses and repetitive strain to the lumbar spine and knee. The physical therapist will often screen the joints above and below symptoms in order to determine how limitations and/or instabilities may contribute to painful symptoms or other subjective and objective limitations.

PTAs should be able to identify and describe the influences of decreased flexibility on hip and pelvis motion so that patients may understand why specific stretches in their home exercise program may be helpful in progressing the patient toward their goals. Patients with postural impairments, asymmetries and movement dysfunctions will benefit from clear education in the effects of decreased tissue mobility on function.

Inadequate recruitment of the gluteus medius, inadequate recruitment of the iliopsoas, decreased mobility of the IT band, TFL and gluteus maximus, and over recruitment of the TFL, hamstrings, and lateral trunk flexors can impact motion throughout the kinetic chain. The PT examination will provide results of tests and measures that assess the length-tension and strength relationships on function. A PTA should be able to read the PT evaluation and comprehend the goals regarding strengthening, lengthening, and stabilizing involved segments. Knowledge of postural impairments allow the PTA to education on injury (and reinjury) management and prevention.

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	Drag the cursor over the dermatome area to distinguish sciatic nerve, from L3, from femoral nerve impairments
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