Malalignment Syndrome in Runners

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanics
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Pelvic malalignment affects over 80% of runners.
• Standard back examinations often overlook pelvic alignment assessment.
• Pelvic malalignment syndrome is a significant factor in runner care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the prevalence of pelvic malalignment in runners.
• To emphasize the importance of assessing pelvic alignment in runners.
• To discuss the implications of pelvic malalignment on running biomechanics research.

Main Methods:

• Review of common presentations of pelvic malalignment.
• Discussion of supervised, progressive treatment programs.
• Analysis of the impact of pelvic malalignment on biomechanical research validity.

Main Results:

• Pelvic malalignment is highly prevalent in the running population.
• Awareness of pelvic malalignment is essential for proper runner care.
• Three common presentations typically respond to targeted treatment.

Conclusions:

• Pelvic alignment assessment should be a standard part of back examinations for runners.
• Ignoring pelvic malalignment can compromise the validity of running biomechanics research.
• Understanding and addressing pelvic malalignment is key to optimizing runner health and performance.