Pelvic obliquity

Pelvic obliquity is a common condition. With pelvic obliquity, one side of the pelvis is lower than the other (when viewed horizontally). Pelvic obliquity can lead to symptoms such as lower back pain, pain in the pelvis or in the legs. This is because the body tries to compensate for the misalignment.

A pelvic misalignment does not always cause symptoms or problems. Are you experiencing any symptoms? If so, it is advisable to see a podiatrist. The symptoms of a pelvic misalignment vary greatly, as they depend on where the body compensates.

• Lower back pain
• Neck pain
• Headache
• Shoulder pain
• Pain in the hips radiating down into the legs

A pelvic misalignment can be caused by a (congenital or acquired) leg length discrepancy, but also as a result of childbirth, a twist, a fall or other trauma. In the case of a pelvic misalignment to the left, the left side of the pelvis is lower than the right, and the same applies vice versa.

If you visit one of our podiatrists with a pelvic misalignment, the treatment will involve assessing whether there is actually a pelvic misalignment or a pelvic torsion. If the foot tilts inwards, this will shorten the leg; if the foot tilts outwards, this will lengthen the leg.

In the event of a postural deviation, there are podiatric insoles made to correct the misalignment. In the event of a genuine leg-length discrepancy, a (separate) elevation is inserted into the shoe or the podiatric insole. Often, a combination of foot alignment correction and compensation for the leg-length discrepancy will be required. In the case of an extreme difference in leg length, a heel lift may be fitted to the outside of the shoe by an (orthopaedic) shoemaker, if necessary.

The expected outcome is a reduction in symptoms or that a person is symptom-free.