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Understanding the Gillet Test: A Key Tool in Pelvic and Sacroiliac Joint Assessment | Physio360.

  • Writer: PHYSIO 360
    PHYSIO 360
  • Apr 19
  • 3 min read


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INTRODUCTION;

When you visit a physiotherapy clinic with complaints of lower back pain, pelvic imbalance, or hip instability, one of the clinical tools your physiotherapist may use is the Gillet Test. At Physio360, one of the best physiotherapy centres in Chennai, our experienced physiotherapists routinely perform this test to assess sacroiliac joint dysfunction, which is often a hidden culprit behind chronic lower back pain.

In this blog, we will discuss the Gilet Test, how it works, and why it matters for recovery, especially when performed by experts at Physio360.


What is the Gilet Test?

The Gillet Test, also known as the Stork Test, is a clinical assessment tool used by physiotherapists and manual therapists to evaluate the mobility and function of the sacroiliac joint (SI joint). The test is particularly helpful in identifying hypomobility (reduced movement) or dysfunction in one side of the pelvis.


Purpose of the Gilet Test.

  • To identify SI joint dysfunction

  • To assess the movement of the ilium relative to the sacrum

  • To detect pelvic imbalances that may cause referred pain in the hip, groin, or lower back




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How is the Gilet Test Performed?

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the Gilet Test is typically performed at Physio360:

  1. Patient Position: You stand upright with feet shoulder-width apart.

  2. Therapist Position: The physiotherapist places one thumb on the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) of the testing side and the other thumb on the sacrum.

  3. Movement: You are asked to flex the hip and knee of the tested leg up to 90 degrees while maintaining balance (as if marching or stepping up).

  4. Observation: The therapist observes how the PSIS moves relative to the sacrum.


Interpretation.

  • Normal Movement: The PSIS moves inferiorly (downward) as the ilium rotates posteriorly.

  • Abnormal/Positive Gillet Test: If the PSIS does not move or moves superiorly (upward) instead, it suggests SI joint hypomobility or dysfunction.




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Why Is the Gilet Test Important?

The sacroiliac joint, though small, plays a major role in weight transfer between your upper body and legs. Dysfunction in this joint can lead to:

  • Chronic lower back pain

  • Pelvic asymmetry

  • Leg length discrepancies

  • Muscle imbalances

  • Reduced athletic performance

At Physio360, our approach to pain management begins with accurate diagnosis, and the Gillet Test is a reliable tool in our assessment protocol, especially for individuals experiencing unexplained back or pelvic pain.


Common Conditions Identified Using the Gilet Test

The Gilet Test can be beneficial for diagnosing or supporting the evaluation of:

  • SI joint dysfunction

  • Pelvic misalignment

  • Leg length discrepancy

  • Functional scoliosis

  • Piriformis syndrome

  • Postpartum pelvic issues

  • Lower limb kinetic chain imbalance


Why Choose Physio360 for SI Joint & Pelvic Assessments?

At Physio360, we believe that every movement matters. We combine evidence-based assessments like the Gilt Test with advanced clinical reasoning to create personalised treatment plans that help you recover faster and perform better.


Here's what makes Physio360 the best place for pelvic assessments:

  • Expert Therapists trained in orthopaedic and manual physiotherapy

  • Advanced Diagnostic Protocols using functional movement assessments

  • Holistic Rehabilitation Plans that include core strengthening, posture correction, and pelvic stability training

  • Specialised care for women’s health, athletes, and postnatal patients

  • Convenient locations in Chennai with a welcoming and professional environment


What Happens After a Positive Gilet Test?

If your Gillet Test is positive, don’t worry! At Physio360, we follow up with:

  • Pelvic alignment corrections using manual therapy or chiropractic techniques

  • Targeted muscle activation exercises for the glutes, core, and hip stabilisers

  • Postural re-education and ergonomic guidance

  • Customised exercise programs for long-term stability and pain prevention


Conclusion

The Gilet Test is more than just a physical examination—it's a window into how your pelvis and spine function together. When performed by skilled therapists at Physio360, this test helps pinpoint the root cause of your discomfort and lays the foundation for effective, long-lasting treatment.

If you’re experiencing pelvic pain, lower back issues, or postural imbalances, book your assessment today with Physio360 Chennai—where recovery begins with the right diagnosis.


Physio360 – Where Pain Ends and Movement Begins.

📍 Locations: Chennai📞 Call now to book your appointment!🌐 Visit us at: www.physio360.in.


REFERENCE AND RESEARCH ARTICLE ;

1.Does the Gillet test assess sacroiliac motion or asymmetric one-legged stance strategies?https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6173222/.


2.Reliability and validity of a new clinical test for assessment of the sacroiliac joint dysfunction dysfunctionhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6385549/

 
 
 

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