Final answer:
To compensate for weak glutes during lunges, have the patient reach with the opposite hand diagonally towards the lunging foot to engage the core and reduce demand on the glutes.
Step-by-step explanation:
When dealing with a patient with weak glutes, and you are trying to instruct them in performing lunges, compensations are sometimes necessary. The primary function of the gluteal group includes raising the knee at the hip, external rotation of the thigh, and assisting with bending over and maintaining posture. To compensate for gluteal weakness during a lunge, you can have the patient reach a hand in the opposite direction of the lunge. For instance, if they are lunging forward with the right leg, they could reach their left hand diagonally across and downwards towards the right foot. This movement helps engage the core and provides a counterbalance that can reduce the demand on the weak glutes while still allowing for the benefits of the exercise. Additionally, instructing the patient to move the thigh diagonally upward and outward can also assist in this action.