Pelvic obliquity deposits are not always good

Pelvic obliquity - insoles are not always the first choice: the right diagnosis is important

10/10/2012

In the industrialized countries, around 70 percent of the population is suffering from a pelvic depression. But most of them do not know about it. Because such a malposition is expressed by various complaints that do not always imme- diately suggest a crooked pelvis. Back pain and chronic headache as well as neck and knee pain are among the possible symptoms. But in the diagnosis applies: pelvic obliquity is not equal to pelvic obliquity.

Only a few people live with a precisely standing pelvis. As long as the obliquity is only a few millimeters, it rarely causes pain. Only larger differences require a cause-oriented treatment. „Anyone who suffers from inexplicable pain in the lower back or on closer inspection in the mirror detects a malalignment of the pelvis, should definitely consult an orthopedist“, explains Dr. Wolfgang Mertens, board member of the orthonet NRW, an association of orthopedic specialists from North Rhine-Westphalia. Because physicians use a 3D survey to distinguish between two causes of pelvic obliquity. Thus it arises either by an actual or an only apparent difference of the leg length. With a misalignment, which is based on an actually different leg length, often already helps a customized insole quickly and effectively. Affected but very rarely suffer from this form.

If, on the other hand, the pelvis is in a three-dimensionally displaced position, the legs only have different lengths. In such a pelvic obliquity insoles tend to increase the symptoms or cause even worse pain. This common form requires a more complex treatment. Often, muscle cramps or injuries cause such misalignments. With this type of pelvic obliquity, regular orthopedic measures improve the symptoms. In the first step of the therapy, orthopedic surgeons apply osteopathic methods, which they tailor to the individual clinical picture. With bare hands they bring the pelvis into the right position. Additional muscular strengthening exercises and physiotherapy provide physical stability to keep the pelvis permanently in this position. Also targeted sports activities promote recovery. Here it is important to find the right amount of movement. Patients should not overload themselves or fall into a condition. „To relieve acute pain itself helps many sufferers the use of a heat pad“, supplements Dr. Mertens.

Picture: Klaus Radloff