Lateral sacral

Lateral Sacral

The lateral sacral region refers to the area of the sacrum that is located on the sides of the bone. The sacrum is a triangular bone at the base of the spine, formed by the fusion of five sacral vertebrae. It plays a crucial role in providing stability and support to the pelvis and connecting the spine to the hip bones.

Anatomy

The lateral sacral region consists of the lateral surfaces of the sacrum. These surfaces are rough and irregular, providing attachment sites for various ligaments and muscles. The lateral sacral region is divided into two parts: the upper lateral sacral region and the lower lateral sacral region.

The upper lateral sacral region is located above the sacral foramina, which are openings in the sacrum for the passage of nerves and blood vessels. It is relatively flat and smooth compared to the lower lateral sacral region.

The lower lateral sacral region is located below the sacral foramina. It is more irregular and has prominent ridges and depressions. The sacral cornua, which are bony projections at the lower end of the sacrum, are also part of the lower lateral sacral region.

Function

The lateral sacral region plays a crucial role in providing stability and support to the pelvis. It serves as an attachment site for various ligaments and muscles that help maintain the alignment of the spine and pelvis.

The ligaments attached to the lateral sacral region include the sacroiliac ligaments, which connect the sacrum to the ilium bones of the pelvis. These ligaments help transmit forces between the spine and the lower limbs during activities such as walking and running.

The muscles attached to the lateral sacral region include the gluteus maximus, piriformis, and other deep muscles of the hip and buttocks. These muscles contribute to the movement and stability of the hip joint and pelvis.

Clinical Significance

Injuries or conditions affecting the lateral sacral region can lead to pain and dysfunction in the lower back, hips, and pelvis. Common conditions include sacroiliac joint dysfunction, sacral fractures, and piriformis syndrome.

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction refers to the abnormal movement or alignment of the sacroiliac joints, which can cause pain and instability in the lower back and hips. Treatment options include physical therapy, medication, and in severe cases, surgery.

Sacroiliac fractures can occur due to trauma or stress fractures. They can cause severe pain and may require immobilization or surgical intervention for proper healing.

Piriformis syndrome is a condition in which the piriformis muscle, located in the lateral sacral region, compresses the sciatic nerve. This can result in pain, numbness, and tingling in the buttocks and down the leg. Treatment options include stretching exercises, physical therapy, and in some cases, injections or surgery.