01/27/2026
ONE HIP SITTING HIGHER THAN THE OTHER – A BIOMECHANICAL EXPLANATION
When one hip consistently sits higher than the other, it reflects an underlying asymmetry in pelvic biomechanics rather than a simple postural habit. The pelvis acts as the foundation for the spine, and even small imbalances at this level can create significant changes in spinal alignment, muscle activation, and load distribution throughout the body.
Biomechanically, a common contributor to this pattern is increased tone or tightness in the hip flexors and quadratus lumborum (QL) on one side. The hip flexors pull the pelvis into anterior tilt, while the QL elevates one side of the pelvis. Together, they create an apparent leg length difference in sitting and standing, even when the bones themselves are equal in length. This altered pelvic position forces the lumbar spine to side-bend and rotate to maintain balance.
At the same time, weak or inhibited gluteal muscles fail to counteract this upward pelvic pull. The gluteus maximus and medius are primary stabilizers of the pelvis during sitting, standing, and walking. When they are underactive, the pelvis loses its ability to remain level, increasing reliance on compensatory muscles such as the QL and hip flexors. This imbalance increases compressive forces on one side of the lumbar spine and sacroiliac joint.
Weak hamstrings further contribute to the problem by reducing posterior pelvic control. Hamstrings normally assist in stabilizing pelvic tilt, especially during transitions between sitting and standing. When they are insufficiently active, the pelvis drifts into asymmetrical positioning, reinforcing uneven loading patterns across the hips and lower back.
Additionally, tight or hypertonic groin (adductor) muscles can pull the femur inward and upward, affecting hip joint alignment. This alters force transmission through the hip and pelvis, increasing stress on the sacroiliac joint and lumbar discs. Over time, this imbalance may manifest as low back pain, hip discomfort, or even knee and foot issues due to altered kinetic chain mechanics.
In summary, one hip sitting higher than the other is a biomechanical issue involving muscle tone imbalance, poor pelvic stabilization, and altered force distribution. Addressing it requires more than posture correction—it demands restoring optimal muscle balance, improving pelvic control, and retraining movement patterns. When pelvic symmetry improves, the spine and lower limbs can function more efficiently, reducing pain and improving overall movement quality.
