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

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Illustration of the course of the long ciliary nerves, highlighting their origin from the nasociliary nerve.
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Long Ciliary Nerves

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Illustration of the obturator canal, showing the obturator membrane within the obturator foramen of the pelvis.
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Obturator Artery

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Muscles of the Upper Limb

Muscles in the Posterior Compartment of the Forearm

by Dr Oliver Jones