Pelvic girdle

Pelvic Girdle

The Pelvic Girdle is a complex, ring-like structure located in the lower part of the trunk, between the abdomen and the legs. It is a major component of the human skeletal system and plays a crucial role in weight bearing and locomotion.

Structure

The pelvic girdle is composed of two hip bones, also known as coxal bones or ossa coxae, and the sacrum. Each hip bone is formed by the fusion of three bones: the ilium, the ischium, and the pubis. These bones are connected to the sacrum at the sacroiliac joints.

Function

The primary function of the pelvic girdle is to support the weight of the upper body when sitting and to transfer this weight to the lower limbs when standing. It also serves as a point of attachment for several muscles and ligaments that are involved in movement and stability of the spine and lower limbs.

Clinical Significance

Conditions affecting the pelvic girdle can have significant impact on a person's mobility and quality of life. These include pelvic girdle pain, which is common during pregnancy, and pelvic fractures, which are often caused by high-energy trauma such as car accidents or falls.

See Also

• Hip bone
• Sacrum
• Pelvic girdle pain
• Pelvic fracture