Internationale Zeitschrift für Physikalische Medizin und Rehabilitation
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Abstrakt

Possible Treatment of Pelvic Asymmetry and Vertebral Dysfunction by Spinal Rotations

Jussi Timgren

Pelvic obliquity is a common, but overlooked condition and it causes functional scoliosis and leg length discrepancy which in turn predispose to musculoskeletal symptoms and a formation of trigger points causing myofascial pain. In the previous papers, we have described the three main manifestations of pelvic obliquity, their diagnosis, and methods of adjustment using patients’ muscular strength. In search of still more practicable methods, the author wishes here to study the effectiveness of a new simple technique of self-correction.

Methods: This preliminary study consists of 22 patients in a physiatric practice presenting various musculoskeletal pain symptoms. All three types of pelvic obliquities were present within the group and some had localized vertebral dysfunctions. The iliac crest levels and inferior scapular angles were measured using a Palpation Meter (PALM^®) before and after the exercise. They all have undergone self-correcting maneuvers, as described in our previous article. By these patients, all the original dysfunction had recurred during the visit. The spinal rotations as described here were used as an alternative method during the same visit. The patients were taught to perform a movement consisting of alternating maximal spinal rotations. After the procedure, the pelvic position and possible vertebral position were assessed anew using the guidelines presented in our previous article. After the procedure, the pelvis and vertebrae involved were assessed anew.

Findings: Spinal rotations brought about pelvic alignment in 17 out of 19 cases (89%). and vertebral symmetry in all except one case, 15 out of 16 (93%). The difference between pelvic asymmetry and alignment is abrupt, and we have not been able to observe any intermediate stages. The fact that the study was implemented by one physician leaves it open to bias. The results have a tentative character calling for further research.

Conclusion: Studies covering reversible pelvic obliquity are still lacking though the condition appears to be common among patients suffering from musculoskeletal pain. Studies concerning the possible self-correcting methods are close to non-existent.