Sacrum vs. Pelvis — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Urooj Arif — Updated on April 25, 2024
The sacrum is a triangular bone at the base of the spine, forming the back of the pelvis, whereas the pelvis is a larger structure comprising several bones including the sacrum.
Difference Between Sacrum and Pelvis
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
The sacrum forms part of the vertebral column and is located at the end of the spinal column, whereas the pelvis is a bony ring consisting of the sacrum and other bones such as the ilium, ischium, and pubis.
The sacrum is made up of five fused vertebrae, providing strength and stability to the backbone, whereas the pelvis supports the weight of the upper body and facilitates movement such as walking and running.
In terms of function, the sacrum connects the spine to the lower limbs through the pelvic girdle, while the pelvis serves as an attachment point for many muscles and supports organs within the abdominal cavity.
The sacrum features several foramina (holes) for nerve passageways and articulates with the iliac bones at the sacroiliac joints, whereas the pelvis forms a protective cage around pelvic organs such as the bladder and reproductive systems.
The sacrum plays a crucial role in bearing and transferring the upper body's weight to the lower limbs, while the pelvis provides leverage and the ability to balance during physical activities.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Triangular bone at the spine's base
Bony structure including the sacrum
Components
Five fused vertebrae
Sacrum, ilium, ischium, and pubis
Function
Connects spine to lower limbs
Supports upper body, facilitates movement
Articulations
With iliac bones at sacroiliac joints
Includes sacroiliac, pubic symphysis
Importance
Stability of the vertebral column
Protection of abdominal and pelvic organs
Compare with Definitions
Sacrum
Supports the spinal column and links it to the lower limbs.
The sacrum is a critical structure for balance and locomotion.
Pelvis
Supports the upper body's weight and facilitates walking and running.
Pelvic fractures can severely affect mobility and weight-bearing capacity.
Sacrum
Triangular bone at the base of the spine, integrating with the pelvis.
The sacrum's role in weight distribution is vital during physical activities.
Pelvis
Involved in important bodily functions such as childbirth.
The pelvic structure expands during childbirth to facilitate delivery.
Sacrum
Articulates with the ilium at the sacroiliac joints.
Pain in the sacroiliac joint is often attributed to problems in the sacrum.
Pelvis
Bony ring including sacrum, ilium, ischium, and pubis.
The pelvis' architecture provides support for both movement and organ protection.
Sacrum
Contains foramina for the passage of nerves.
The sacrum's foramina allow for the exit of nerves that control lower limb movements.
Pelvis
Protects vital abdominal and pelvic organs.
The pelvic bones form a cage around organs like the bladder and uterus.
Sacrum
Composed of five fused vertebral segments.
The fused nature of the sacrum adds to the rigidity and durability of the spine.
Pelvis
Provides attachment points for numerous muscles.
Several core muscles attach to the pelvis, aiding in stability and strength.
Sacrum
The sacrum (plural: sacra or sacrums), in human anatomy, is a large, triangular bone at the base of the spine that forms by the fusing of the sacral vertebrae (S1–S5) between ages 18 and 30.The sacrum situates at the upper, back part of the pelvic cavity, between the two wings of the pelvis. It forms joints with four other bones.
Pelvis
The pelvis (plural pelves or pelvises) is either the lower part of the trunk of the human body between the abdomen and the thighs (sometimes also called pelvic region of the trunk) or the skeleton embedded in it (sometimes also called bony pelvis, or pelvic skeleton). The pelvic region of the trunk includes the bony pelvis, the pelvic cavity (the space enclosed by the bony pelvis), the pelvic floor, below the pelvic cavity, and the perineum, below the pelvic floor.
Sacrum
A triangular bone made up of five fused vertebrae and forming the posterior section of the pelvis.
Pelvis
The large bony frame near the base of the spine to which the hindlimbs or legs are attached in humans and many other vertebrates.
Sacrum
That part of the vertebral column which is directly connected with, or forms a part of, the pelvis.
Pelvis
The broadened top part of the ureter into which the kidney tubules drain.
Sacrum
Wedge-shaped bone consisting of five fused vertebrae forming the posterior part of the pelvis; its base connects with the lowest lumbar vertebra and its tip with the coccyx
Pelvis
The cavity formed by this structure.
Pelvis
See renal pelvis.
Pelvis
(anatomy) A funnel-shaped cavity, especially such a cavity in the kidney into which urine passes towards the ureter
Pelvis
The pelvic arch, or the pelvic arch together with the sacrum. See Pelvic arch, under Pelvic, and Sacrum.
Pelvis
The calyx of a crinoid.
Pelvis
The structure of the vertebrate skeleton supporting the lower limbs in humans and the hind limbs or corresponding parts in other vertebrates
Pelvis
A structure shaped like a funnel in the outlet of the kidney into which urine is discharged before passing into the ureter
Common Curiosities
What is the sacrum made of?
The sacrum is composed of five fused vertebrae.
Can issues with the sacrum affect mobility?
Yes, problems in the sacrum can lead to pain and reduced mobility.
What are the main functions of the pelvis?
The pelvis supports upper body weight, facilitates movement, and protects pelvic organs.
How do pelvic fractures impact the body?
Pelvic fractures can compromise mobility and organ protection.
How does the sacrum connect to the pelvis?
The sacrum articulates with the ilium at the sacroiliac joints.
What bones make up the pelvis?
The pelvis consists of the sacrum, ilium, ischium, and pubis.
What role does the pelvis play in childbirth?
The pelvis expands during childbirth to allow the baby to pass through.
What muscles attach to the pelvis?
Numerous muscles including the gluteus maximus, abdominals, and pelvic floor muscles.
Why is the sacrum important for balance?
The sacrum helps distribute weight from the upper body to the lower limbs, aiding in balance.
Are the sacrum and pelvis prone to specific injuries?
Both can suffer from fractures, dislocations, and arthritis due to stress and trauma.
What is the significance of the foramina in the sacrum?
The foramina allow for nerve passages that control lower body functions.
Can modifications to the pelvis affect overall posture?
Yes, changes in pelvic alignment can impact posture and spinal health.
How are sacrum issues diagnosed?
Through imaging tests like X-rays and MRIs.
What is the relationship between the pelvis and the lower limbs?
The pelvis acts as a bridge between the spine and lower limbs, facilitating leg movements.
How does the structure of the sacrum aid in its function?
Its triangular shape and fusion provide strength and stability.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
