Rib Cage and Pelvic Connection

By Shannon Strauch, PTA, STMT-1 on 11/5/2024

The rib cage and pelvis work together as a stabilizing framework for the body, providing support, balance, and efficient movement. This relationship involves both skeletal alignment and muscular coordination, creating a dynamic system that influences posture, breathing, and core stability. Here’s how they coordinate and why their interaction is so vital:

1.

Posture and Alignment

• Proper alignment of the rib cage and pelvis promotes a neutral spine, which distributes forces efficiently. When misalignment occurs, such as rib flare or pelvic tilt, muscles and ligaments strain to compensate, potentially leading to pain and dysfunction.

• This alignment influences the structural support for organs within the abdominal and pelvic cavities, as well as the effectiveness of the core and pelvic floor muscles.

2.

Diaphragm’s Role and Core Pressure

• The diaphragm’s contractions influence not only breathing but also intra-abdominal pressure. As it descends, it creates a counterforce against the pelvic floor, enhancing core stability.

• This pressure also affects organs like the bladder and impacts structures like the urachus, a fibrous remnant of fetal development that connects the bladder to the umbilicus.

3.

Muscle Connections and Core Stability

• Muscles like the transverse abdominis and obliques, which attach between the rib cage and pelvis, are integral to stabilizing the trunk. These muscles work with the diaphragm to support posture and intra-abdominal pressure, affecting bladder and organ positioning.

• Additionally, deep back muscles, such as the multifidus, help maintain a healthy posture by stabilizing the vertebrae. Dysfunction in any of these muscles can lead to increased strain on surrounding structures.

4.

Ligament Connections and Organ Support

• Ligaments that span the distance between the rib cage and pelvis are crucial for stability. The iliolumbar ligament, for example, supports the lower spine and pelvis, while costovertebral ligaments stabilize the ribs to the spine, both of which maintain torso integrity.

• The urachus and paired umbilical ligaments connect the bladder and other organs to the abdominal wall, with the umbilical ligaments helping anchor the bladder. These remnants of fetal blood supply help stabilize the bladder during changes in posture or pressure from the diaphragm.

5.

Bladder and Pelvic Floor Connection

• The bladder relies on both ligamentous support and pressure regulation from the diaphragm and pelvic floor for proper function. As the diaphragm moves, it impacts bladder position and function, which is influenced by the urachus and umbilical ligaments.

• The pelvic floor muscles also respond to the diaphragm’s movements, creating a synchronized system that supports both posture and bladder control.

6.

Liver Attachments and Upper Abdominal Stability

• The liver’s positioning is influenced by ligaments that connect it to the diaphragm, such as the

  coronary and falciform ligaments. These attachments also indirectly influence the lower abdominal organs.

• Since the liver is attached to the diaphragm, its movement during breathing can affect intra-abdominal pressure and posture. Misalignments or dysfunction in the diaphragm or rib cage can thus impact the liver, altering pressure dynamics within the abdominal and pelvic cavities.

Together, these anatomical connections create a complex, interconnected system in which the rib cage, pelvis, diaphragm, and various ligaments and organs work in tandem to maintain stability, pressure, and alignment. Pelvic floor therapy and core stabilization exercises can be essential for optimizing this system, improving posture, bladder function, and overall organ support. Looking to optimize your well being with pelvic floor physical therapy? Reach out to us at Pelvic Health Center in Madison, NJ to set up an evaluation and treatment! Feel free to call us at 908-443-9880 or email us at receptionmadison@pelvichealthnj.com.

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