What are the different types of pelvis and how do they affect my health?

Question

For the past few months, I’ve been dealing with some discomfort in my lower back and hip area. At first, I thought it was just bad posture or maybe something related to my weight, but recently, a friend mentioned that different types of pelvis shapes could affect mobility, posture, and even digestion. I had never even thought about the shape of my pelvis before, but now I’m curious if it has anything to do with the issues I’m experiencing.

I notice that when I sit for long periods, I feel a deep, almost pulling sensation in my hips, and sometimes it spreads to my lower back. If I stand for too long, my lower spine feels compressed, almost like there’s too much pressure. Also, I’ve had irregular bowel movements for years—sometimes constipation, other times bloating, and I wonder if that could be linked to my pelvis shape too.

I came across something about Ayurveda focusing a lot on body structure (Prakriti) and how it influences health. Does Ayurveda recognize different pelvis types, and if so, how do they impact overall well-being? Could my pelvis shape be the reason for my discomfort, and is there a way to correct any imbalances naturally? Are there specific exercises, massages, or herbal treatments that help align or strengthen the pelvis in Ayurveda?

I’d really appreciate any guidance on this because I want to fix the root cause rather than just deal with temporary relief. Looking forward to some insights!

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Ayurveda views body structure (Prakriti) as an essential factor in overall health, including bone alignment, posture, and digestion. The pelvic region is governed by Apana Vata, which controls lower body functions like elimination, menstruation, and stability. If the pelvis is misaligned or structurally imbalanced, it can create tension in the lower back, hips, and even impact digestion. A narrower or tilted pelvis may contribute to constipation and bloating, while a wider, looser pelvis may lead to instability and lower back discomfort. These imbalances often stem from Vata aggravation, which causes dryness, stiffness, and irregular movement in the body.

To bring balance, Ayurveda recommends warm oil massages (Abhyanga) with sesame or Mahanarayan oil, which help lubricate the joints and relax tense muscles. Gentle yoga poses like Malasana (deep squat), Supta Baddha Konasana (reclining butterfly), and Pawanmuktasana (wind-relieving pose) can improve pelvic flexibility and digestion. Ayurvedic herbs like Triphala (for regulating bowel movements) and Dashmool (for strengthening pelvic tissues) can be beneficial. Avoiding excessive sitting, cold foods, and irregular eating habits can also help reduce Vata-related stiffness and discomfort.

For deeper correction, practices like Marma therapy, Panchakarma (detoxification), and Ayurvedic physiotherapy techniques can help realign the pelvis and improve mobility. Since your symptoms are affecting both posture and digestion, it’s best to take a holistic approach, combining diet, movement, and targeted Ayurvedic therapies. With consistent care, you can gradually ease discomfort and restore balance naturally.

What are the different types of pelvis and how do they affect my health? - #16585

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