Abstract:It is common to use the nonlinear load-transfer method (p-y curve method) or Poulos¢s elastic theory to calculate piles subjected to lateral soil movements at present. The characteristics of the two methods are discussed and a new coupling analytical solution based on the two methods is developed. In the new method,the soil moduli along pile length are calculated by the p-y curve method according to the soil elements¢ stresses level and lateral displacements between the pile elements and soil elements. Then,the elastic theory is used to account for the soil-pile interaction between different elements by using the above soil moduli. The results of the proposed coupling method are reasonable as shown by comparing lateral behavior of the pile under horizontal soil movements with those of the above two methods.