Charter 5_Pelvis, Hip, and Thigh 173
Figurę 5-13, cont'd.
soles of the patient’s feet rest at different heights above thc examination table (Fig. 5-17). Although uncommon, shortening in the hindfoot (talus or calcaneus) can also produce this appearance. In that case, comparing the rest-ing position of the malleoli rcveals that the tibial lengths are eąual.
Flexion Contracture
Examining thc standing patient from the side permits the detection of any abnormalities of pelvic rotation in thc sagittal piane. Figurę 5-18 illustrates how a hip flexion contracture can produce such an abnormality. Figurę 5-18A shows normal sagittal alignment. In Figurę 5-18B,
Figurę 5-14. A, Simulated abduction contracture of the left hip. B, Compensation with lift under the right foot.