A Review of the Muscle Activation Patterns Associated with the Pelvic Tilt Exercise Used in the Treatment of Low Back Pain

A survey of the literature was undertaken to review the evolution of the posterior pelvic tilt exercise (PPTE) and to evaluate the use of the PPTE in treatment programs for low back pain (LBP). The review then focused on electromyographic (EMG) evidence supporting the clinical claims of improved posture, abdominal muscle strength, trunk stability and decreased pain associated with the PPTE.The recruitment patterns and the level of activation during the PPTE for the abdominal and the trunk extensor muscles in different postures have not been clearly established for normal subjects or those with LBP. Minimal evidence supporting the role of the hip extensor muscles in performing the pelvic tilt was found. Claims that the PPTE activates the abdominal or hip extensor muscles to a level that would promote strengthening cannot be substantiated. It is suggested that EMG biofeedback could potentially assist in decisions to use the PPTE.