Anterior Pelvic Tilt

Lumbar/Pelvis - Postural

Anterior pelvic tilt is an anterior rotation of the pelvis that increases lumbar lordosis and is commonly associated with lower crossed syndrome.

Biomechanical Mechanism

Shortened hip flexors and lumbar extensors with weak abdominals and glutes. This shifts the pelvis forward and increases lumbar extension.

Clinical Rationale

APT increases lumbar load and impairs hip extension mechanics. Correcting pelvic position reduces stress and improves movement.

Practical Solution

Address hip flexor tightness and improve posterior pelvic control with glute/core strengthening.

Common Compensations

• Lumbar hyperlordosis
• Gluteal inhibition
• Rib flare

Progression

1. Level 1: Mobility and activation
2. Level 2: Core control
3. Level 3: Integrated hip hinge
4. Level 4: Loaded strength

Regression

• Reduce load
• Use supported positions
• Shorten ROM

Red Flags

• Severe pain
• Neurological symptoms
• History of trauma

Differential Diagnosis

• Hip flexor contracture
• Lumbar facet irritation
• SI joint irritation

Related Patterns

• lumbar hyperlordosis
• lower crossed syndrome
• hip flexor tightness

Related Exercises

• hip flexor stretch
• glute bridge
• dead bug
• posterior pelvic tilt drill
• plank
• side plank
• goblet squat
• hamstring smr
• hip flexor contract relax
• squat to box

Related Assessments

• pelvic tilt visual assessment
• overhead squat assessment
• modified thomas assessment

Evidence