BoneIrregular bone

Hip bone

Latin: Os coxae sinistrum

Location: Pelvis

Paired structure: one on the left and one on the right side of the body.

View the hip bone in 3D

Function

Fusion of ilium, ischium and pubis in the Y-shaped acetabulum. It cradles the femoral head, transmits weight from sacrum to leg through the pelvic ring, anchors two dozen muscles and shields the pelvic organs.

Landmarks

  • Iliac crest and fossa
  • Anterior superior and inferior iliac spines
  • Acetabulum
  • Ischial tuberosity and spine
  • Pubic crest and tubercle
  • Greater and lesser sciatic notches
  • Iliopubic eminence
  • Obturator foramen

Articulations (joints)

  • Sacrum (sacroiliac joint)
  • Femur (hip joint)
  • Right hip bone (pubic symphysis)

Clinical relevance

Avulsion fractures at the ASIS (sartorius) and ischial tuberosity (hamstrings) occur in sprinting adolescents; acetabular fractures disrupt hip congruity and lead to arthritis.

Related conditions

Educational anatomy reference, not medical advice. About this content.