Hip Joint and Pelvis
The hip joint is a ball and socket joint.
This type of joint allows the leg to rotate in all directions inside the
socket. Ligaments and muscle tendons provide support to this joint
and limit movement to 45 degrees from neutral (anatomic) position.
The pelvis is important in coordinating movements
of the trunk in relation to the legs. When the leg is stationary,
the movement of the pelvis increases the rage of motion of the trunk in
all directions.
The hip joint has six major movements:
Flexion -
Forward motion
Extension -
Reverse of flexion
Adduction -
Move toward midline
Abduction -
Move outward from body
Medial Rotation
- Inward rotation
Lateral Rotation
- Outward rotation
Hip abduction promotes side stepping movements
(lateral movement). Leg abduction is the key action in shifting body
weight in hitting or throwing sport activities.
Hip abductors keep the pelvis stable and level in
walking and running activities. With weak hip abductors, the hip
drops on the side of the swing leg and may lead to back problems.
Should you have any further questions
regarding this article, please direct your questions or comments to "Ask
the Doctor" section.
Copyright © 2004 - 2008 Taras V.
Kochno, M.D. All Rights Reserved
Board Certified in
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
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