01/24/2026
All things torso, coming up! Ya know Psoas, Obliques and Transverse Abdominus, to name a few, for Myofascial Movement classes in February @ WMC.
Mark your calendars for noon on Feb. 2nd and 9th
https://www.facebook.com/100093896395307/posts/769279932878546/?mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v
🦴 Rib Cage–Pelvis Relationship: A Core Biomechanics Perspective
This diagram highlights a critical concept in human biomechanics—the relationship between the rib cage and the pelvis. These two structures act as the upper and lower foundations of the trunk, and the spine functions as a connector that must manage load, movement, and stability between them.
In the left illustration, the rib cage and pelvis are not stacked over each other. They are tilted in opposite directions, creating a “shear” effect through the spine. The spring symbol represents excessive strain placed on the spinal segments, where muscles and passive tissues are forced to absorb abnormal forces rather than transmit them efficiently.
When the rib cage flares or rotates while the pelvis shifts or tilts, the abdominal wall loses its ability to generate effective intra-abdominal pressure. This reduces core stability and increases reliance on spinal extensors and ligaments. Over time, this leads to fatigue, poor movement control, and higher risk of low back and thoracic pain.
The right illustration shows optimal alignment, where the rib cage is stacked directly over the pelvis. In this position, the spine experiences more compressive (safe) loading rather than shear forces. Muscles work in synergy, allowing the trunk to behave like a stable cylinder rather than a stressed spring.
With proper stacking, the diaphragm, abdominal muscles, and pelvic floor function as a unified pressure system. This improves breathing efficiency, enhances postural endurance, and reduces unnecessary strain on intervertebral discs and facet joints.
From a functional standpoint, this alignment supports better movement in daily activities, sports, and rehabilitation. Force generated by the lower limbs transfers smoothly through the pelvis and trunk, while upper-body loads are efficiently supported without compensatory tension.
✨ Key biomechanical message: Pain-free posture and movement depend on stacking the rib cage over the pelvis. When alignment is restored, the spine becomes stable, efficient, and resilient—designed to move without overload.
