Pelvic arch

Pelvic Arch

The Pelvic Arch, also known as the Pelvic Girdle, is a ring-like bony structure, located in the lower part of the trunk. It connects the spinal column to the femurs, or thigh bones. The pelvic arch is a critical structure in the human body, as it supports the weight of the upper body and plays a crucial role in the movement and balance of the body.

Anatomy

The pelvic arch is composed of two hip bones, the sacrum, and the coccyx. Each hip bone is formed by the fusion of three bones: the ilium, the ischium, and the pubis. The sacrum is a triangular bone located at the base of the spine and the coccyx, also known as the tailbone, is the final segment of the vertebral column.

Hip Bones

The hip bones are large, flat bones that form the most significant part of the pelvic arch. They are connected to the sacrum at the sacroiliac joints and meet each other at the pubic symphysis, a cartilaginous joint.

Sacrum

The sacrum is a large, triangular bone located at the base of the spine. It is formed by the fusion of five sacral vertebrae and connects the spine to the hip bones.

Coccyx

The coccyx, or tailbone, is the final segment of the vertebral column. It is a small, triangular bone that is the remnant of a vestigial tail.

Function

The primary function of the pelvic arch is to support the weight of the upper body when sitting and to transfer this weight to the lower limbs when standing or walking. It also protects the pelvic and abdominopelvic organs, provides attachment for muscles and serves as the point of articulation for the femurs.

Clinical Significance

Conditions affecting the pelvic arch can have significant implications for mobility and quality of life. These conditions include pelvic girdle pain, pelvic fractures, and pelvic organ prolapse.