Introduction to the Vertebral Column, Pelvis & Femur

The Vertebral Column

• Made up of 33 vertebrae
• Each one identified by a letter (denoting region ) and a number denoting its relative position (C1-7, T1-12, L1-5, S1-5, Co1-4/5)
• Each pair are separated by an Intervertebral Disc (except C1 and C2) 

The Spine - Typical Vertebra

• All vertebrae share some common characteristics (except C1/2)
• Anterior – vertebral body
• Posterior – vertebral arch
• Note regional variations in the size and shape of the vertebral body
• The vertebral arch is made up of :-
• 2 pedicles – from posterior aspect of vertebral body
• 2 lamina – arising from the pedicles
• Spinous Process arises from the junction of the left and right lamina
• Transverse and articular processes arise from the junction of each pedicle and lamina
• Palpation of the spinous processes allows identification of anatomical levels

The Sacrum

• 5 fused vertebra set at an angle 
• Forms the base of the spine 
• Articulates with the innominate bones to form the pelvis
• The whole of the posterior surface of the sacrum can be palpated

The Pelvis

• Bony ring formed by 3 bones – left & right innominate bones and the sacrum
• Stable base for the spine – allows weight dissipation to both legs

The Innominate Bone

• Formed by the fusion of 3 bones – Ilium, Ischium and Pubis
• Each of the 3 bones contributes to the formation of the socket of the hip joint – the Acetabulum
• Keys points of reference:
• Iliac spines (4) (palpable)
• Iliac crest (palpable)
• Auricular surface
• Ischial spine
• Ischial tuberosity (palpable)
• Greater and lesser sciatic notches
• Body of pubis (palpable)
• Obturator foramen

The Femur

• Typical long bone
• Key points to note on upper end:
• Head
• Neck
• Greater (palpable) and lesser trochanter
• Intertrochanteric line (anterior)
• Intertrochanteric crest (posterior)

• Also note:
• Shaft and linea aspera
• Medial & lateral condyles (palpable)
• Medial & lateral epicondyles (palpable)
• Intercondylar area
• Adductor tubercle (palpable)
• More bony points will be described as the joints and muscles are covered in more detail

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