Asymmetry of pelvic rotation in gait of normal adults: The relationships among trunk rotation, hip joint flexion and extension, step length and standing posture

Abstract

[Purpose] We kinematically investigated the relationships of asymmetric pelvic rotation during gait with trunk rotation, hip joint flexion and extension, step length and standing posture. [Subjects] Twenty-two healthy adult males were the subjects. [Method] Using a 3D motion analysis system, we measured the angles of pelvic rotation, trunk rotation, and right and left hip joint extension and flexion, and left and right step length during gait, as well as the pelvic rotation angle in quiet standing. [Results] We found that the left and right pelvic rotation angles varied widely during gait. We found no relationship between the left and right rotation angle differences of the pelvis and trunk, and the right and left hip joint flexion and extension showed fixed values, as well as the left and right step lengths showed fixed values. We found a very strong correlation between the pelvic rotation angle in quiet standing and the left and right pelvic rotation angle difference during gait. [Conclusion] Pelvic rotation angle during gait is not necessarily symmetric and there are individual differences. The results suggest that assessment of pelvic rotation in the standing position would be useful for observations of gait.