Pelvis

A complex structure that supports the weight of the upper body and plays a crucial role in locomotion.

The pelvis is a bony structure located at the base of the spine, forming the connection between the trunk and the lower limbs. It consists of several bones, including the ilium, ischium, pubis, sacrum, and coccyx, which together create a basin-like shape. The pelvis not only serves as a protective enclosure for the pelvic organs but also supports the weight of the upper body when sitting or standing.

Terminologia Anatomica

pelvis

System

Skeletal system

Function

The pelvis serves multiple essential functions within the human body. One of its primary roles is to provide structural support for the spine and upper body, allowing for the transfer of weight to the lower limbs during activities such as walking, running, and jumping. Furthermore, the pelvis houses and protects vital organs located within the pelvic cavity, including the bladder, reproductive organs, and parts of the digestive system. It also serves as an attachment point for several muscles, facilitating movement and maintaining stability. The shape and size of the pelvis vary between individuals but are particularly distinct between males and females, influencing aspects of balance and locomotion. In females, the pelvis is wider and more rounded to facilitate childbirth, demonstrating its critical role in reproductive functions as well.

Location

The pelvis is situated at the inferior end of the vertebral column, situated between the abdomen and the legs. It connects with the lower spine via the sacrum and extends laterally through the iliac bones. The pelvis can be divided into two major regions: the greater (or false) pelvis, which is the upper part and supports abdominal organs, and the lesser (or true) pelvis, which forms the birth canal and contains the pelvic organs. The bony architecture creates a solid frame that anchors the femur at the hip joint, allowing for a wide range of motion while maintaining stability during movement. Due to its placement at the body's base, the pelvis acts as a pivotal junction, linking the spine to the legs and aiding in overall posture and gait.

Did You Know?

The term 'pelvis' comes from the Latin word for 'bowl' due to its basin-like shape.
In humans, the angle of the pelvis affects walking and running gait; a wider pelvis is generally linked to more efficient locomotion.
The pelvis is composed of several individual bones that fuse as a person matures.
In females, the pelvic cavity is broader and shaped differently to accommodate childbirth.
Some anthropologists use pelvic shape to study human evolution and migration patterns.