The question of whether a chiropractor can “fix misaligned hips” is common for individuals experiencing persistent lower back or hip discomfort. The hip and pelvis form a complex joint structure that serves as the foundation for the spine, making its alignment crucial for overall body mechanics. While the term “misaligned hips” may sound like a straightforward mechanical problem, it involves a variety of functional and structural issues. Chiropractic care focuses on addressing the functional imbalances in this area to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Defining Hip Misalignment and Pelvic Asymmetry
The phrase “misaligned hips” rarely refers to a true orthopedic dislocation, which requires immediate medical attention. Instead, the term describes pelvic asymmetry or pelvic tilt, where the pelvis is rotated or tilted out of its neutral position. This functional misalignment means the bones of the pelvis—the ilium, ischium, and pubis—are not sitting level or symmetrical in relation to the spine and legs.
This asymmetry often involves the sacroiliac joint (SI joint), where the sacrum connects to the two iliac bones of the pelvis. SI joint dysfunction is a frequent source of lower back and hip pain and is a primary focus of chiropractic assessment. Chiropractors may also use the term “subluxation” to describe joint restrictions or minor misalignments that affect nerve function and mobility.
The misalignment can manifest in different patterns, such as an anterior tilt (tipping forward), a posterior tilt (tipping backward), or a lateral tilt (one hip appearing higher than the other). These functional deviations are usually detected through posture analysis, gait assessment, and specific orthopedic tests during a chiropractic examination. Identifying the specific tilt pattern is the first step toward a targeted corrective strategy, as each pattern involves different muscle groups and joint stresses.
Chiropractic Methods for Correction
Chiropractors employ hands-on techniques designed to restore balance and motion to the pelvic region and spine. The primary procedure used to address functional hip and pelvic asymmetry is the manual adjustment, or spinal manipulation. This often involves a High-Velocity Low-Amplitude (HVLA) thrust applied specifically to the restricted sacroiliac joint to improve its movement and position.
The adjustment is intended to free up the restricted joint surfaces, which can lead to immediate changes in muscle tension and pain perception. Following the adjustment, chiropractors often incorporate mobilization techniques, which are slower, more gentle movements used to increase the range of motion in the hip or surrounding joints.
Soft tissue work is also a component of the correction process, as tight or spasmed muscles are often the cause or result of the asymmetry. Techniques like massage, stretching, or myofascial release may be used to relax muscles such as the piriformis, psoas, or gluteal muscles that are pulling the pelvis out of alignment. For certain individuals, a chiropractor may use tools like the Activator instrument or pelvic blocking techniques, which deliver precise, low-force adjustments.
Underlying Causes Beyond the Joint
A functional hip misalignment is often a symptom of chronic muscular imbalances or habitual poor posture rather than a random bone displacement. The pelvis is highly influenced by the large muscle groups of the torso and legs, and imbalances in these muscles can pull the pelvis out of its neutral alignment. For example, a common cause of anterior pelvic tilt is the combination of chronically tight hip flexors and weak core and gluteal muscles.
Prolonged sitting, characteristic of a sedentary lifestyle, frequently contributes to this pattern by shortening the hip flexors and weakening the muscles that stabilize the pelvis. Gait abnormalities or constantly standing with weight shifted onto one leg can also create a functional leg length discrepancy, causing one side of the pelvis to hike up.
To achieve a lasting correction, a chiropractor will typically incorporate rehabilitative exercises alongside adjustments. These exercises focus on strengthening the weak muscles, particularly the glutes and core, and stretching the tight muscles, such as the hamstrings and hip flexors. This long-term corrective strategy requires active patient participation, as addressing the underlying muscle and lifestyle habits is necessary to maintain proper pelvic balance and prevent recurrence.
When Chiropractic is Not the Answer
While chiropractic care is highly effective for functional pelvic asymmetry and mechanical joint issues, there are specific situations where it is not the appropriate first line of treatment. Certain “red flags” indicate a need for immediate referral to a medical doctor or emergency services. These include severe trauma, such as a recent fall or car accident, where a fracture or true dislocation is possible.
Other warning signs are symptoms of serious pathology, such as a sudden loss of bladder or bowel control, indicating severe nerve compression. Unexplained fever, chills, or night sweats accompanying hip pain may suggest infection or systemic disease. Similarly, if a patient has a known history of cancer that may have spread to the bones, adjustments may be contraindicated.
In these cases, imaging like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs is necessary to rule out structural damage or serious disease. The chiropractor identifies these limitations and ensures the patient is referred to the appropriate healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Chiropractic care should always be part of a coordinated healthcare approach, and patients should understand that a functional issue is distinct from a medical emergency.