International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Trainer Practice Exam

What is it called when the superior iliac crest of the pelvis moves forward and downward from the normal anatomical position?

1. Kyphosis

2. Lateral pelvic tilt

3. Lordosis

4. Scoliosis

The correct answer is: Lordosis

The correct answer refers to a specific movement of the pelvis known as anterior pelvic tilt. This occurs when the superior iliac crest, which is the top part of the pelvis, moves forward and downward from its normal anatomical position. This movement often leads to changes in the curvature of the lumbar spine, resulting in an increased lordotic curve, or lumbar lordosis, which is the inward curve of the lower back. Understanding this concept is crucial in various fitness and rehabilitation settings since an excessive anterior pelvic tilt can contribute to low back pain and affect one's overall posture and biomechanics. Proper assessment of pelvic alignment helps trainers and therapists design appropriate interventions to correct postural imbalances and improve overall function. The other options are related to different postural deviations or spinal curvatures. Kyphosis refers to an exaggerated outward curve of the thoracic spine, lateral pelvic tilt signifies unevenness between the two sides of the pelvis often due to muscular imbalances. Scoliosis involves an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. Each condition has its own distinct characteristics and implications for movement and alignment, but they do not specifically describe the forward and downward movement of the pelvic crest as in an anterior pelvic tilt.