What is Posterior Pelvic Tilt?
Posterior pelvic tilt posture definition:
Posterior pelvic tilt (PPT) is a posture term that describes the backward rotation of the pelvis, typically accompanied by lumbar spine flexion.
Best observed in the side views, PPT is when the front of the pelvis lifts up and the tailbone tucks under. Posterior pelvic tilt is the opposite motion and position of the pelvis compared to anterior pelvic tilt (APT), where the front of the pelvis tips down and the tailbone sticks out.
The bony landmarks commonly used to identify PPT include the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) and the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS). The degree of pelvic tilt is determined by comparing the relative height of the ASIS to the PSIS on the right and left sides of the pelvis.
Anterior pelvic tilt (PPT) is the opposite motion and position of the pelvis, where the tailbone lifts up and the front of the pelvis tilts down.
Anatomy:
In posterior pelvic tilt, significant muscles that help stabilize the spine and move the body become shortened or lengthened, putting them out of position to work functionally. These muscle imbalances contributing to PPT can lead to various issues in the lumbar spine, pelvis, and hips.
Shortened muscles include the abdominal muscles (rectus abdominis, obliques, and transverse abdominis), the gluts (gluteus maximus), and the hamstrings (biceps femoris, semimembranosus, and semitendinosus).
Lengthened muscles include the lumbar erectors (erector spinae), mulifidi, hip flexors (such as the psoas major, iliacus, and rectus femoris), and other muscles of the core and spine that help to stabilize and maintain pelvic alignment.
Common Issues:
- Low back pain: PPT can contribute to low back pain by increasing lumbar spine flexion and placing excessive pressure on the intervertebral discs.
- Hip pain: Due to the altered alignment of the pelvis, individuals with PPT may experience hip pain, impingement, or restricted range of motion.
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction: The abnormal position of the pelvis in PPT can place increased strain on the sacroiliac joints, leading to pain and dysfunction.
- Gait abnormalities: PPT negatively affects gait pattern, often leading to issues in the lower extremities and compensations in other areas of the body.
- Poor posture: PPT is often associated with slouched posture (also C-posture), contributing to muscle imbalances, pain, and discomfort throughout the body.
- Decreased athletic performance: PPT negatively impacts an individual's balance, stability, and overall physical performance, particularly in activities that require optimal hip and lumbar spine mobility.
Addressing posterior pelvic tilt through targeted exercises, stretches, and posture therapy can help alleviate these issues and improve overall body alignment.