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Pelvis

The pelvis is a strong and stable structure that connects the trunk to the legs. It supports the upper body during sitting and standing, while also transferring weight through the lower body during walking and other activities. Made up of the sacrum and two innominate bones, the pelvis plays a vital role in balance, stability, and shock absorption, but its high workload also makes it a common source of pain.
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Joints of the Pelvic Region

The pelvic region consists of three main joints:
Sacroiliac (SI) joints, left and right
Femoroacetabular joints, left and right
Pubic symphysis
These joints connect the trunk to the legs, providing stability for weight-bearing, shock absorption, and efficient weight distribution.
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Structure and Function of the Pelvis

The pelvis by itself consists of the SI joints and pubic symphysis only. The sacrum and (left and right) innominate bones make up the pelvis. Each innominate bone is the formation of three fused bones: ilium, ischium, and pubis. Click here for more information regarding hip (femoroacetabular) joint pain.

From a musculoskeletal perspective, its primary functions are supporting the upper body while sitting or standing and transferring weight through lower body during standing activities like walking. This anatomical design makes it very effective at transferring load between the trunk and legs.

As a core body region, the high work demands placed on the pelvis makes it a common source of pain.

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Common Causes Of Pelvic Pain
Many types of pain occurs in the pelvic region from the support it provides to the trunk and legs. Most common causes are typically caused by prolonged sitting and standing. The type of injury and severity of your symptoms can vary depending on several factors.

For example, if you’re someone that walks more duck-footed (retroverted) or pigeon-toed (anteverted) then there’s a variation in the amount of rotation in your femoral head. In addition, if your standing posture looks more knock-kneed (coxa vara) or bow-legged (coxa valga) when standing then there’s a variation in the angle between the femoral head and the shaft. All these things will not only affect how you move – walking, going upstairs – but also how and where you feel pain.

 Other causes of pelvic pain include:

SI joint dysfunction
Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) – during pregnancy
Osteitis pubis
Tendinitis
Motor vehicle accidents
Falling
Ligament sprains or tears
Muscle strains or tears
Fractures
And more

Common symptoms include:

Difficulty walking
External pelvic pain
Pelvic floor pain
Swelling or stiffness
Clicking/popping with movement
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How Physical Therapy Helps You
The cause and location of your pelvic pain can be internal or external. Following the initial evaluation, your physical therapist will determine and discuss the cause of your concerns. We will refer you to a pelvic floor specialist if the suspected cause of your pain or issues requires an internal examination. Together, you and your physical therapist will set goals specific to your needs and create a plan of care. Your plan of care will help you accomplish your goals and get you back to what you enjoy doing!

Living with pain does not have to be your new norm. Contact us to get a free phone consult and schedule an initial appointment if you’re suffering from pelvic pain.

Following the initial evaluation, your physical therapist will determine and discuss the cause of your pain or issues. Together, you and your physical therapist will set goals specific to your needs and create a plan of care. Your plan of care will help you accomplish your goals and get you back to what you enjoy doing!

Living with pain does not have to be your new norm. Contact us to get a free phone consult and schedule an initial appointment if you’re suffering from hip pain.

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Frequently Asked Questions
What joints make up the pelvic region?
The pelvic region consists of the sacroiliac (SI) joints on both sides, the femoroacetabular joints (hips), and the pubic symphysis. These joints connect the trunk to the legs and provide stability, shock absorption, and weight distribution.
What is the pelvis made of?
The pelvis is formed by the sacrum and two innominate bones. Each innominate bone is created from three fused bones: the ilium, ischium, and pubis. Together, these structures provide strong support for sitting, standing, and walking.
What are common causes of pelvic pain?
Pelvic pain can be caused by prolonged sitting or standing, SI joint dysfunction, pubic symphysis dysfunction (often during pregnancy), osteitis pubis, tendinitis, ligament or muscle injuries, fractures, falls, or accidents.
What symptoms might suggest a pelvic issue?
Common signs include pelvic or pelvic floor pain, external pelvic pain, swelling or stiffness, difficulty walking, and clicking or popping sensations during movement.
How can physical therapy help with pelvic pain?
A physical therapist will evaluate your condition to identify whether the pain is internal or external. If needed, you may be referred to a pelvic floor specialist. Therapy focuses on managing pain, restoring mobility, and strengthening the region so you can return to your normal activities.