What is the area above the tailbone called?

Answered by Antonio Sutton

The area above the tailbone is called the sacrum. The sacrum is a bone that is part of the vertebral column and is located at the base of the lumbar vertebrae. It is triangular in shape and forms the posterior pelvic wall.

The sacrum is made up of five fused vertebrae, which are known as the sacral vertebrae. These vertebrae fuse together during adolescence to form a single bone. The fusion of these vertebrae creates a strong and stable structure that provides support and stability to the pelvis.

The sacrum is connected to the pelvis through a series of joints, including the sacroiliac joints. These joints allow for limited movement between the sacrum and the pelvis, but overall the sacrum acts as a solid foundation for the pelvis.

One of the main functions of the sacrum is to transmit the weight of the upper body to the lower limbs through the pelvis. It acts as a bridge between the spine and the pelvis, distributing the forces generated during movement and providing stability to the pelvis.

In addition to its role in weight transmission and stability, the sacrum also serves as an attachment site for various muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These structures help to further strengthen and stabilize the pelvis.

The sacrum is a highly important structure in the body, as any dysfunction or injury to this area can have significant consequences. For example, a fracture or displacement of the sacrum can lead to pain, instability, and difficulty with walking or standing.

The area above the tailbone is called the sacrum. It is a shield-shaped bone that forms the posterior pelvic wall and provides strength and stability to the pelvis. The sacrum plays a crucial role in weight transmission, stability, and the attachment of various muscles, ligaments, and tendons.