Coccygeal vertebrae
Coccygeal Vertebrae
The Coccygeal Vertebrae (pronunciation: /kɒksɪˈdʒiːəl vɜːrˈteɪbriː/), also known as the tailbone or coccyx, is the final segment of the vertebral column in humans and certain other primates.
Etymology
The term "coccyx" is derived from the Greek word "kokkux", which means "cuckoo" due to the curved shape of the bone which resembles the beak of this bird.
Anatomy
The coccygeal vertebrae are usually composed of four individual vertebrae (the coccygeal vertebrae 1–4) that below the sacrum. However, the number of coccygeal vertebrae can vary from three to five in different individuals. The coccyx is generally more prominent in human females than in males.
Function
The coccyx serves several functions. It provides attachment for certain muscles, ligaments, and tendons. It also acts as an important weight-bearing structure when a person is in a sitting position.
Related Terms
- Vertebral column: The series of vertebrae extending from the base of the skull to the coccyx that forms the supporting axis of the body in vertebrate animals.
- Sacrum: The large, triangular bone at the base of the spine and at the upper and back part of the pelvic cavity.
- Coccydynia: Pain in the coccyx or tailbone area, often brought on by sitting.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Coccygeal vertebrae
- Wikipedia's article - Coccygeal vertebrae
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