Sacral tuberosity

Sacral tuberosity is a specific anatomical feature found in the human skeleton. It is located on the sacrum, which is a large, triangular bone at the base of the spine and at the upper and back part of the pelvic cavity, where it is inserted like a wedge between the two hip bones.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The sacral tuberosity is found on the dorsal surface of the sacrum, which is rough and uneven due to the presence of a number of tubercles. These tubercles are the remnants of the vertebral arches and are named according to their position. The sacral tuberosity is specifically located on the lateral parts of the sacrum, where it is connected to the iliac bone of the pelvis via the sacroiliac joint.

The sacral tuberosity is marked by a series of three to four transverse ridges, which are the remains of the intervertebral discs. These ridges are intersected by four paired openings, the sacral foramina, which transmit the posterior divisions of the sacral nerves.

Function[edit | edit source]

The sacral tuberosity serves as an attachment point for several muscles and ligaments, including the sacrospinous ligament and the sacrotuberous ligament. These ligaments play a crucial role in stabilizing the sacrum and the pelvis, and they contribute to the transfer of forces from the spine to the lower limbs during activities such as walking and running.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Due to its role in load transfer and its connections with various muscles and ligaments, the sacral tuberosity can be involved in several pathological conditions. These include sacroiliitis, which is an inflammation of the sacroiliac joint, and piriformis syndrome, which is a neuromuscular disorder that occurs when the piriformis muscle compresses the sciatic nerve.