01 / Location & anatomical relationships
At the base of the trunk, between the spine and thigh bones.
02 / Structure & organization
Each hip bone develops from ilium, ischium and pubis. Together with the sacrum, the paired bones form a ring transmitting load between spine and lower limbs. The acetabula receive the femoral heads.
03 / Function
It supports organs and connects your spine to your legs.
04 / Mechanism
The hip bones connect with the sacrum to form a strong ring. This arrangement transfers body weight toward the legs. It also provides attachment points for muscles and surrounds organs in the lower trunk.
Working together: skeletal system
Bones provide a framework. Muscles pull on them through tendons, and joints allow movement.
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Connect structure with function
Pelvic form varies considerably. Sex-associated average differences do not describe every individual, and the bony pelvis should be distinguished from its organs and pelvic-floor tissues.
Check your understanding
Locate the pelvis in relation to its neighbors. Explain how the structural features described above support its function, then distinguish it from a nearby structure with a different role.
Keep learning
Continue with OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology for system-level study. This atlas is educational and has not undergone independent medical peer review.