Bones of the Pelvis

Overview

The bony pelvis supports abdominal and pelvic organs, transfers weight to the lower limbs and provides attachment points for key muscular and ligamentous structures. This section outlines the major components of the pelvic skeleton and their articulations. These structures form the rigid framework required for locomotion, childbirth and protection of viscera.

Key Structures

Topics include the hip bone, pelvic girdle, sacrum, coccyx and sacroiliac joint, describing their anatomical features, surfaces, and roles in stability and movement. Structural differences between male and female pelves are also relevant in this context.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Understanding pelvic skeletal anatomy is vital for interpreting fractures, pelvic ring stability, sacroiliac dysfunction and obstetric dimensions. This knowledge underpins trauma assessment, biomechanical analysis and radiological interpretation.

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Articulating surfaces of the sacroiliac joint, illustrating the anatomical structure.

The Sacroiliac Joint

Hip bone of a 5-year-old displaying triradiate cartilage.

The Hip Bone

The Pelvic Girdle

Overview of the sacrum in anatomical position.

The Sacrum

Diagram highlighting the bony landmarks of the coccyx.

The Coccyx

Popular

Diagram of the pyramidalis muscle located in the anterior abdominal wall.
Encyclopaedia

Pyramidalis

by Aren Mnatzakanian

Illustration depicting the deep muscles of the gluteal region, including the quadratus femoris, obturator internus, piriformis, and gemelli muscles.
Encyclopaedia

Piriformis

by Dr Oliver Jones

Illustration showing the deep branch of the radial nerve piercing the supinator muscle, identified as the posterior interosseous nerve.
Encyclopaedia

Posterior Interosseous Nerve

by Dr Oliver Jones