07/12/2024
ADVENT ANATOMY DAY 6
THE PELVIS
The pelvis is a solid, complex and essential structure that plays a critical role in support and movement. The pelvis connects to the lumbar spine via the sacroiliac joints and to the lower body via the hip joints. The pelvis itself is made up of three bones which are fused together as one, making it very strong. Its intricate anatomy forms a sturdy foundation for locomotion while protecting the bladder, reproductive organs, and lower digestive tract. It transfers force from the lower limbs into the spine, facilitating walking, running and other movements.
(1) Front view of the pelvis, showing connections to the hips, the p***c symphysis in the middle at the front, the sacroiliac joints behind and the shape of the structure.
(2) The Ilium. Each ilium sits next to the sacrum, runs round the sides and into the top of the hip joint.
(3) The P***s. From the front of the hip joint to the front of the pelvis. The p***c symphysis is the name of the joint at the front, central part of the pelvis.
(4) The Ischium. From the back of the hip joint to the underside of the ilium. Note the hamstring muscles attach to the bottom of the ischium at a bony landmark called the ischial tuberosity.
(5) The Sacroiliac joints. The SIJ at force-transferring joints from the pelvis up into the spine. These joints hardly move (different sources note between 0-5mm of movement) but there is strong cartilage and plenty of ligaments supporting the joints. They’re very strong.
(6) The ligaments. Note the hip joints have multiple ligaments supporting the joint capsule. The inguinal ligament is at the front, attaching from the top of the front of the ilium (at the ASIS-anterior superior iliac spine) to the p***c symphysis. And look at the numerous strong ligaments supporting the SIJ.
(7) Nerves. Lots of the nerves from the lumbar spine meet in the pelvis and leave to the leg through holes (foramen) that are very well designed.
(8) Note the sciatic nerve travelling through a large hole called the greater sciatic foramen.
(9) Muscles at the back of the pelvis.
(10) Muscles at the front of the pelvis.
More muscle information in future posts!
