Anterior Pelvic Tilt (APT) is a condition which causes your pelvis to tilt forward and your spine to curve unnaturally. As per studies, almost 85% males and 75% females in an asymptomatic population show symptoms of anterior pelvis tilt.
This tilting of your pelvis weakens glutes and tightens your hamstrings, leading to hamstring sprains and muscle tear. Thus, a balanced pelvic position is crucial to minimize hip pain, discomfort and stomach bulges.
In this comprehensive guide I have detailed the symptoms, tests and causes of anterior pelvic tilt. I have also zeroed-in on the solutions and suggested effective exercises, back braces and mattresses that can aid in the recovery.
Read on for some detailed mattress reviews and tips for better management of the condition.
Anterior Pelvic Tilt refers to a postural imbalance where the pelvis tilts excessively forward. This condition can lead to discomfort, pain, and potential long-term health problems if left unattended. It typically arises from muscle imbalances in the lower back, hips, and core muscles, contributing to the misalignment of the pelvis and a prominent stomach bulge.
The pelvic girdle or pelvis is a complex structure of bones lying between your hips. It facilitates essential movements like walking, running, and lifting objects off the ground. Moreover, it significantly influences your overall posture.
Anterior pelvic tilt is caused when the front of the pelvis rotates forward and the back of the pelvis rises, resulting in a shift in posture. Prolonged durations of sitting, a lack of physical activity, and the resulting muscular imbalances induce anterior pelvic tilt.
Anterior pelvic tilt can also be caused by a lack of stretching or strengthening workouts. It has an impact on posture and the shape of the spine, as well as causing other symptoms. It causes the hip flexors to shorten and the hip extensors to lengthen, resulting in greater curvature of the lower spine and upper back. Anterior pelvic tilt can also be caused by weak stomach muscles.
The muscles that connect the thigh bone to the pelvis and lower back are known as hip flexors. They’re used for running, kicking, and bending at the hips. The gluteus maximus and three other muscles that make up the hip extensors are known collectively as the hamstring muscles. They aid in hip extension.
Additionally, your sleeping position can also affect anterior pelvic tilt.
How? Let’s discuss.
It can be difficult to sleep with an anterior pelvic tilt, since it causes severe lower back discomfort. If you wish to improve your anterior tilt when sleeping, concentrate on repositioning your pelvis to a more neutral position.
If you sleep on your back, the most basic solution is to place a pillow or blanket between your knees. On doing this, the anteriorly-tilted pelvis returns to a neutral posture. Thus, it helps to relax the lower back muscles thereby alleviating pain.
Simply pay attention to how you’ve positioned yourself if you sleep on your side. Most side sleepers will curl up into a fetal position with their knees tucked up against their chest. This is an ideal sleep position as the pelvis and spine remain rested in a neutral posture as a result of this.
Sleeping on your stomach causes an anterior tilt since your stomach sinks deeply into the bed. Stomach sleeping, particularly on a soft bed, will eventually exacerbate your anterior tilt. Hence, it is advisable to sleep on a firmer sleep mattress if you are a routine stomach sleeper.
Let’s dig deeper into the type of mattress that is suitable for each type of sleeping position. Keep scrolling!
If you have anterior pelvic tilt, you need to first identify the best position for sleeping. Next you need to select the level of firmness you require in a mattress.
If you sleep on your back, you should avoid a soft mattress. Because your shoulders and legs sink into it, you’ll have a bent spine, which will likely increase your Anterior Pelvic Tilt.
On a soft mattress, you’ll have a similar problem if you sleep on your stomach. Your core will sink in relation to your arms, neck, and head in this situation, resulting in the same misalignment.
If you are a side sleeper, however, you should avoid a firm mattress because it will put too much pressure on your hips and shoulders. A soft and supportive mattress is ideal as it relieves pressure from sections of your body.
By investing in a high-quality mattress, you can significantly enhance your sleep experience and promote optimal spinal alignment and posture. You need to identify a suitable position for sleeping before buying a comfort sleep mattress.
A well-designed mattress offers the essential support and comfort needed for maintaining a healthy sleeping posture. It effectively minimizes stress on your lower back and hips, contributing to the reduction of anterior pelvic tilt. As a result, you can enjoy improved overall posture, which has numerous benefits for your well-being.
Given below is our list of the most suitable sleep mattresses for alleviating pelvis pain.
Are you suffering from anterior pelvic tilt coupled with pelvis pain at night?
Then we strongly suggest the “Saatva Classic Mattress.”
Why So?
Saatva mattress has earned the Certification of Approval from the Congress of Chiropractic State Associations and offers a balance between plushness and firmness when you lie down on it. This hybrid mattress combines the features of innerspring mattresses and memory-foam mattresses to provide the ideal support to your lumbar region when you sleep.
With pressure relief features and 3 firmness options, Saatva Classic is considered suitable for individuals of all body types and sleep positions!
Best for Back Pain and Lumbar Support
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Saatva’s mattresses are designed with adjustable firmness options to cater to individual preferences. Their luxury firm range offers a medium level of firmness, which is often recommended for individuals with back pain and pelvis pain issues.
Saatva prioritizes pain relief in their mattress design, earning approval from the Congress of Chiropractic State Associations and endorsement from numerous chiropractors across the United States (US).
Features
Feel
Comfort is not compromised with Saatva mattresses. The Euro pillow top provides a plush cushioning effect, and if you opt for the plush soft mattress, specifically recommended for side sleepers, the pillow top includes extra padding to cradle your body and alleviate strain as you settle into bed.
Manufactured in the United States, Saatva mattresses come with complimentary delivery.
Pros
Cons
Eager to Know More About Saatva Mattress? Check Detailed Review
Further, In Order To Learn More About Chiropractor Recommended Mattresses Check This Out!
Best for Side Sleepers
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a great all-around mattress that has been awarded numerous times. The medium-firm feel is perfect for most sleep preferences and styles. The individually wrapped coil support system provides the support and bounce of a traditional innerspring mattress, but with the added benefit of zoned support. Given below are a few more mattress facts.
Features
Feel
This means that the mattress is designed to perfectly support the natural curvature of the body, which helps to align the spine and relieve pressure points. Helix also offers a softer and firmer option in their Luxe lineup if you prefer something on one of the other ends of the firmness spectrum.
Overall, the Helix Midnight Luxe is a well-loved mattress among people suffering from back pain.
Pros
Helix Moonlight mattress is ideal for sleepers who:
Cons
Helix Moonlight mattress may not be as suitable for sleepers who
Get Detailed Review on Helix Midnight Luxe. Read on!
Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Nolah Evolution mattress is an ideal option if you suffer from APT. It offers impressive pressure relief and body contouring. While favored by side sleepers, it is also well-suited for back sleepers with pain in the lumbar region who appreciate a softer mattress. The inclusion of a soft pillow top adds extra comfort, making it particularly beneficial for alleviating shoulder or hip pain.
Features
Feel
Nolah Evolution mattress boasts a construction using high-quality, luxurious materials that contribute to its overall comfort and durability. The mattress is designed with breathability in mind, ensuring a cool and comfortable sleeping environment throughout the night.
Users have experienced a significant reduction in back and neck discomfort, indicating the mattress’s ability to provide optimal support and alleviate common sleep-related issues. The balanced feel of the mattress is appreciated by couples, making it an ideal choice for individuals with varying sleep preferences.
Pros
Cons
Luxury Firm model may be too soft for most stomach sleepers, except for lightweight individuals. Stomach sleepers are advised to opt for the firmer model for better support and alignment.
Read the Comprehensive Review on Nolah Evolution 15 Mattress.
Best for Pressure Relief
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Brooklyn Bedding Signature hybrid mattress combines the benefits of a traditional innerspring mattress with Brooklyn Bedding’s patented Titan foam comfort layers to provide pressure relief. The Titan foam layers combine properties of latex and memory foam, creating a comfortable sleep environment for all sleeping style and comfort preferences.
Features
Here are some of the key features of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress:
If you are looking for a value-based hybrid mattress that is comfortable for all sleeping and comfort preferences, then the Brooklyn Bedding Signature mattress is a great option.
Feel
Pros
Brooklyn Signature mattress is ideal for people who:
Cons
Brooklyn Signature mattress may not be ideal for people who:
Eager to learn more about Brooklyn Bedding Signature? Read our Comprehensive Mattress Review.
Best Mattress for Reducing Pain
Smart Mattress Buy’s Review
Puffy Cloud mattress is a bed-in-a-box featuring an all-foam construction with a medium firmness, catering to various types of sleepers. Notably, it excels in alleviating aches and pains due to its optimal combination of support and pressure relief. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable and supportive sleep surface that contributes to reducing back pains.
Features
Feel
Overall, the Puffy Cloud mattress offers a versatile and supportive feel, catering to the diverse needs of different sleeper type
Pros
Cons
Not Ideal for Strict Stomach Sleepers: Strict stomach sleepers may find the Puffy Cloud mattress too soft to adequately support their hips. It may not provide the level of firmness needed for this sleeping position.
Claim the Best Deals on Puffy Today!
Want to Read About Other Puffy Mattress Options? Read on.
Ever wondered about the symptoms of Anterior Pelvic Tilt? Let’s explore in the underlying sections.
Here are a few anterior pelvic tilt symptoms that will help you identify the condition.
It’s worth mentioning that often, there are no noticeable symptoms of anterior pelvic tilt. Many individuals may have this condition without experiencing any specific issues or discomfort.
APT occurs when the Anterior Superior Iliac Spine (ASIS) is either positioned lower than the Posterior Superior Iliac Spine (PSIS) in the sagittal plane or rotates inferiorly relative to the PSIS in terms of motion.
In this tilt, the front of the pelvis drops forward, causing the lower back to arch, and the abdomen to protrude. This can lead to an exaggerated curvature in the lumbar spine.
Posterior pelvic tilt occurs when the ASIS is positioned higher than the PSIS in the sagittal plane or rotates superiorly relative to the PSIS in terms of motion.
In this tilt, the pelvis rotates backward, flattening the lower back. It is characterized by a tucked-in appearance of the pelvis and a reduction in the natural curve of the lumbar spine.
Key Differences
Implications
Understanding the distinction between posterior and anterior pelvic tilt is crucial for addressing associated issues and implementing appropriate corrective measures, whether through exercises, stretches, or other interventions.
In the underlying section I have discussed a few common tests for anterior pelvic tilt to diagnose the condition on time. Let’s read about it.
1. Thomas Test
a) Procedure:
b) Observations:
c) Purpose:
Note: The test is named after the British surgeon Hugh Owen Thomas, who developed it as a diagnostic tool.
2. Posture and Spine Examination
a) Observations:
b) Purpose:
By observing the overall posture and spine shape you can recognize visual cues that may suggest anterior pelvic tilt.
3. Professional Assessment
a) Procedure:
Seeking assessment from a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or orthopedic specialist, can provide a comprehensive diagnosis.
b) Observations:
Professionals may use a combination of visual assessments, patient history, and additional tests to accurately diagnose anterior pelvic tilt.
c) Purpose:
Professional assessment ensures a thorough evaluation, taking into account individual variations and nuances in the presentation of anterior pelvic tilt.
How to correct anterior pelvic tilt?
In cases of anterior pelvic tilt, the pelvis can be gradually realigned to a neutral position through a combination of stretching and strengthening exercises.
Anterior Pelvic Tilt Fixing Exercises
Some key exercises include:
Consistency in incorporating these exercises, along with anterior pelvic tilt stretches throughout your daily activities, contributes to the gradual anterior pelvic tilt correction. Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional or physical therapist can provide personalized recommendations for effective rehabilitation.
If you are suffering from hip pain or anterior pelvic tilt then it is mandatory you incorporate these few exercises into your daily routine. By incorporating these easy movements like anterior pelvic tilt stretches you can significantly alleviate pelvis pain and discomfort over time.
Let’s learn more about these exercises.
I have detailed some anterior pelvic tilt exercises that you can easily adopt and include in your daily schedule. Consistently practicing these exercises will aid in posture correction and reduce stomach bulges.
Squats are an effective exercise for addressing Anterior Pelvic Tilt due to their impact on various muscle groups. This compound movement engages multiple muscle groups, including the gluteus muscles, hamstrings, and quadriceps, among others.
By performing squats, these muscles are strengthened and developed, contributing to improved overall muscle balance and stability. Stronger gluteus muscles and hamstrings can help counteract the Anterior Pelvic Tilt by providing better support to the pelvis and promoting proper alignment of the hips and lower back.
Pelvic tilts are a helpful exercise for fixing Anterior Pelvic Tilt because they target specific muscles that keep your pelvis aligned properly. When you do pelvic tilts, you engage and strengthen your abdominal muscles, especially the deep core muscles.
These muscles are important for supporting your pelvis and keeping your lower back stable. Strengthening these muscles helps reduce the forward tilt of your pelvis, so it becomes more aligned.
Pelvic tilts also stretch the muscles in your lower back, which can relieve any tightness or tension contributing to the Anterior Pelvic Tilt. By regularly doing pelvic tilts, you can restore balance to your pelvis and improve your overall posture.
Bridges are an effective exercise for addressing Anterior Pelvic Tilt because they target and strengthen key muscle groups involved in maintaining pelvic alignment. By performing bridges, you engage and work your hamstrings and gluteus muscles. These muscles play a significant role in stabilizing the pelvis and promoting proper alignment.
Strengthening the hamstrings helps counteract the forward tilt of the pelvis, while strengthening the gluteus muscles provides support and stability to the pelvis and lower back. This can help restore a more neutral pelvic position and alleviate the effects of Anterior Pelvic Tilt.
Regularly incorporating bridge exercises into your routine can contribute to improved muscle balance, pelvic alignment, and overall posture.
Prolonged sitting can lead to tight hip flexor muscles, and the kneeling hip flexor stretch is an effective way to alleviate this tightness.
Follow these steps for a beneficial stretch:
a) Step 1: Positioning
Kneel down on the left knee, ensuring the right knee is directly over the right ankle.
Place both hands on the right thigh for stability while keeping the spine tall and straight.
b) Step 2: Engage Muscles
Tighten the buttock and stomach muscles, maintaining a neutral pelvis position.
c) Step 3: Lean Forward
Lean forward into the right hip while ensuring stability in the pelvis and back. Feel the stretch in the hip flexor and inner thigh.
d) Step 4: Hold and Repeat
Maintain the stretch for 30 seconds, repeating the process five times.
Aim to stretch a little more with each repetition for increased flexibility and relief.
e) Step 5: Switch Sides
Repeat the entire process on the other side to ensure both hips benefit from the stretch.
This anterior pelvic tilt stretch is particularly effective in loosening and lengthening tight hip flexor muscles. This promotes flexibility and mitigates the impact of prolonged sitting during office/work hours. Practicing these exercises can show significant improvement in posture as can be visible in anterior pelvic tilt before and after results.
Back braces for anterior pelvic tilt, especially pelvic support belts, can offer significant relief and stability for individuals dealing with anterior pelvic tilt and associated posture issues. These braces provide crucial support to the pelvic region, addressing the imbalance caused by pelvic tilt.
Key benefits include:
For individuals with anterior pelvic tilt, incorporating a pelvic support belt into their routine can be an effective tool in managing symptoms and promoting better pelvic alignment and overall posture.
However, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a physiotherapist for personalized guidance on the use of back braces and other interventions.
It’s needless to mention that a proper supportive mattress suiting your individual health metrics and body type can reduce anterior pelvic tilt and the pain associated with it. Now that we have detailed upon the exercises, let’s help you figure out the best mattress for your needs.
Hybrid mattresses blend the supportive qualities of innerspring coils with the comfort and contouring abilities of memory foam or latex layers. This unique combination offers a balanced level of support, making it advantageous for individuals dealing with Anterior Pelvic Tilt. Many hybrid mattresses incorporate zoned support systems, providing extra support specifically in the lumbar and pelvis region.
However, it’s important to note that hybrid mattresses, similar to latex ones, tend to be pricier compared to other mattress types. Furthermore, certain hybrid models may not excel in motion isolation as effectively as memory foam or latex mattresses. This can result in disturbances for those who share a bed.
Pros
Cons
Read all about Hybrid mattresses from our guide.
Memory foam mattresses offer numerous benefits, primarily due to their remarkable ability to conform to the body’s contours, delivering exceptional pressure relief and support. This contouring feature can effectively alleviate stress on the lower back and hips, thereby minimizing the effects of Anterior Pelvic Tilt (APT). Particularly, higher density foams excel in providing this much-needed support.
Additionally, memory foam mattresses excel in motion isolation, ensuring that disturbances occurring on one side of the bed are unlikely to disturb the other side. However, it’s worth noting that memory foam mattresses have a tendency to retain heat, which may cause discomfort for certain sleepers. Furthermore, they may not offer sufficient firmness for stomach sleepers who require adequate pelvic support.
Lastly, it is possible for some memory foam mattresses to emit initial off-gassing odors, although these odors typically dissipate over time.
Pros
Cons
Here’s our detailed guide on Memory foam mattresses.
Latex mattresses provide a harmonious blend of support and pressure relief, making them an ideal choice for individuals with Anterior Pelvic Tilt. These mattresses often offer specialized support in the lumbar region, ensuring proper spinal alignment. In addition to their supportive qualities, latex mattresses are known for their durability and natural hypoallergenic properties, promoting a healthy and long-lasting sleep environment. It’s important to note, however, that latex mattresses tend to be more expensive compared to other mattress types.
Pros
Cons
Read your ultimate guide to Latex mattresses.
Traditional innerspring mattresses, especially those equipped with pocketed coils, offer commendable support for sleepers. They excel in maintaining good airflow, facilitating a cool and comfortable sleep environment. However, when compared to memory foam or latex mattresses, they may not provide an equivalent level of contouring support, which could be a drawback for individuals dealing with Anterior Pelvic Tilt.
Innerspring mattresses also have a tendency to be less durable over time, with the potential for sagging or coil breakdown. Additionally, these mattresses often lack efficient motion isolation, which can be a disadvantage for couples or those sharing a bed.
Pros
Cons
Here’s everything you need to know about Innerspring mattresses.
Planning to Buy a Mattress for Anterior Pelvic Tilt? Here Are Some Factors That You Need to Consider.
If you plan to go ahead and buy a sleep mattress for Anterior Pelvic Tilt then you need to examine a few important factors. Given below are some factors that you need to pay heed to before choosing yourself an ideal mattress!
1. Tip 1: Firmness Level
When dealing with Anterior Pelvic Tilt, selecting a mattress with the appropriate firmness level becomes crucial. A medium-firm mattress is generally advised as it offers a well-rounded blend of support and comfort. It plays a vital role in maintaining proper spinal alignment, alleviating pressure on the lower back and hips, and preventing excessive tilting of the pelvis.
2. Tip 2: Lumbar Support
If you are suffering from Anterior Pelvic Tilt, then you need to select a mattress offering targeted lumbar support. This feature provides the right support for your lower back, which helps keep your spine aligned and reduces the chances of developing or worsening postural issues.
3. Tip 3: Mattress Type
When searching for a mattress to help with Anterior Pelvic Tilt, it’s important to consider different types that offer varying levels of support and comfort.
Here are some options to consider:
4. Tip 4: Budget
When looking for the right mattress to address Anterior Pelvic Tilt, it’s essential to take your budget into consideration. While it’s important to prioritize a high-quality mattress that offers the required support and comfort, there are options available at different price ranges. Seek out a mattress that aligns with your needs without straining your finances.
5. Tip 5: Trial Period & Warranty
6. Tip 6: Sleeping Position
Hope you now have a comprehensive idea on how to fix Anterior Pelvic Tilt. Check our guidelines and tips to make a wise decision in finding an ideal sleep mattress!
In conclusion, selecting the right mattress to tackle Anterior Pelvic Tilt involves thoughtful consideration of factors such as firmness level, lumbar support, mattress type, sleeping position, budget, and warranty.
Sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being as it plays a vital role in various physiological processes. It allows the body to repair and rejuvenate, supports cognitive function, and promotes physical and mental recovery. N1, N2, N3 and REM are the stages of sleeping. Often sleeping 6 hours is enough for performing your daily life activities.
You can improve your sleep cycle by being mindful of your sleeping position, enjoying relaxed music for sleeping, or by taking a short break to any sleep retreat. In case you are suffering from Anterior Pelvic Tilt (APT), you can improve your sleep routine by investing in a comfortable sleep mattress that provides proper support to your lumbar and pelvis region.
Smart Mattress Buy offers a range of mattresses to combat pelvis pain and catered to your individual requirements! So, take time to assess your individual needs and preferences, before you make an informed decision! Choose a mattress which promotes optimal spinal alignment, minimizes lower back stress, and fulfills all your sleep requirements.
Q1. What is the recommended firmness level for addressing APT or Anterior Pelvic Tilt?
Q2. Can a mattress topper help with Anterior Pelvic Tilt?
Q3. How can I further address Anterior Pelvic Tilt during sleep?
Q4. Can exercises assist with Anterior Pelvic Tilt?
The content presented in this article is meant solely for informational purposes and is not intended to substitute professional guidance. It is not formulated as a diagnostic tool for addressing health issues. Prior to making any alterations to your health care routine, it is strongly advised to seek personalized advice from a qualified healthcare professional.