Date of Award

1995

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Physical Therapy (MPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Beverly Johnson

Keywords

Sacroiliac Joint

Abstract

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is one of the most common diagnoses of low back pain. Musculoskeletal imbalance is one of the precipitating factors which cause sacroiliac joint dysfunction (SIJ). The gluteus medius, a primary stabilizer of the pelvis, has been observed clinically to be weak in a significant number of individuals with SIJ dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to determine the difference in gluteus medius function in subjects without SIJ dysfunction in comparison to subjects with SIJ dysfunction. To make this comparison, electromyographic data and information regarding lower extremity stability were collected using a force plate.

This study showed weakness of the gluteus medius in patients with SIJ dysfunction and better stability of the lower extremity with recruitment of the gluteus medius. Future studies would be beneficial to further delineate the function of the gluteus medius on SIJ mechanics and eventually lead to better treatment practices for individual with SIJ dysfunction.

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