1. Understanding the Pelvic Bone
The pelvic bone is a large bone located at the base of the spine. It consists of two hip bones that are in turn comprised of three bones: the ilium, the ischium and the pubis. The ilium is the largest part, located at the upper portion of the hip bone. The ischium is the back, lower part and the pubis is the front part of the hip bone. The main purpose of the pelvic bone is to transfer weight and energy from the legs to the spine. It also protects abdominal organs such as the uterus and the prostate.
2. Men Versus Women
Men and women have different pelvic bones. The woman's pelvic bone is wider because a baby has to pass through the bony opening during delivery. The male pelvic bone is heavier and narrower than the female pelvic bone. Therefore, it is easy to determine if a skeleton belonged to a male or female by looking at the pelvic bone.
3. Pelvic Fractures
A pelvic bone can fracture. People who play sports or elderly people who have osteoporosis are at highest risk for a pelvic fracture. It is also common to see pelvic fractures in automobile accidents because of the high impact. Minor pelvic fractures do not require surgery. The patient will need crutches or a wheelchair until it has healed (which usually takes about three months). However, if the pelvic fracture is accompanied by internal bleeding, a surgeon may recommend surgery.
4. Diseases of the Pelvic Bone
One of the most common diseases of the pelvic bone is osteoporosis. Another is osteomalacia, or bone cancer. There are a lot of organs in the pelvic bone region, such as the reproductive organs. If these organs become diseased, there could be a lot of pelvic discomfort and pain.
5. Pelvic Pain Management
If you have any type of pelvic pain, you should consult your doctor. If the pain relates directly to the pelvic bone, you will have difficulty walking, sitting and laying down. Otherwise, the cause is likely an organ located in the pelvic region. Regardless of the type of pelvic pain, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible.
