Trendelenburggang

Trendelenburggang refers to an abnormal gait pattern characterized by a dropping of the pelvis on the side opposite the weight-bearing limb during the stance phase of walking. This occurs when the muscles responsible for stabilizing the pelvis, primarily the hip abductors (gluteus medius and gluteus minimus) on the weight-bearing side, are weak or dysfunctional.

When an individual with Trendelenburg gait places their weight on the affected leg, the weakened abductor muscles fail to adequately counteract the gravitational pull on the pelvis. Consequently, the pelvis on the non-weight-bearing side dips downwards. To compensate and maintain balance, the person often leans their trunk over the affected leg. This compensatory lean is an attempt to shift the body's center of mass over the supporting limb, thereby reducing the demand on the weak abductors.

The causes of Trendelenburg gait are varied and often relate to neurological or musculoskeletal issues. These can include congenital or developmental hip abnormalities such as hip dysplasia, nerve damage affecting the superior gluteal nerve which innervates the abductor muscles, or conditions like polio that can lead to muscle weakness. Muscular dystrophy and myopathies can also result in the characteristic gait. The severity of the gait deviation can range from a subtle drop to a pronounced tilting of the pelvis. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause, which may include physical therapy to strengthen the affected muscles, or in some cases, surgical interventions.