What is the pelvic girdle?

The pelvic girdle, also known as the hip girdle, is a bony structure in the body that connects the spine to the lower limbs. It consists of two hip bones, also known as the innominate bones, which are joined together at the front by the pubic symphysis and at the back by the sacrum. The pelvic girdle provides support and stability to the spine and pelvis, and also serves as a point of attachment for muscles and ligaments that help with movement and stability of the lower body.

The pelvic girdle is a ring of bones that forms the pelvis. It consists of the two hip bones (coxal bones), the sacrum, and the coccyx.

- Hip bones (coxal bones): These are two large bones that form the sides and front of the pelvis. Each hip bone is made up of three bones that fuse together during childhood: the ilium, the ischium, and the pubis.
- Sacrum: This is a triangular bone that forms the back of the pelvis. It is made up of five fused vertebrae.
- Coccyx: This is a small, triangular bone that forms the base of the pelvis. It is made up of four fused vertebrae.

The pelvic girdle provides support for the abdominal and pelvic organs, and it allows for movement of the legs.