E. Pelvic Girdle
1. Consists of only two coxal bones
a. Provide strong, stable support
for the weight of the body
2. These two bones are united anteriorly
at a joint called the pubic symphysis
a. Unite posteriorly to the sacrum
3. Each hipbone consists of three regions
a. Ilium- superior structure, largest
1. Has four separate spines for
muscle attachment
2. The auricular surface
articulates with the sacrum
to form the sacroiliac joint
b. Ischium- posterior portion of
the hipbone
1. AKA the butt bone
2. A projection called the
ramus joins with the pubis to
form the obturator foramen
a. Largest foramen in
the body
c. Pubis- anterior and inferior part
1. Forms the pubic
symphysis; the only spot
where the two coxal bones
touch
d. Together these parts form the
acetabulum, which accepts the
head of the femur
4. Along with the sacrum and the
coccyx form the pelvis
a. The upper area is the
greater(false) pelvis and should be
uniform in males and females