Pelvis · Flat bone
Ilium (Hip Blade)
The ilium is the large, fan-shaped upper part of each hip bone — the bit you rest your hands on. It supports the abdomen and anchors powerful hip and buttock muscles.
What it is
The ilium is the largest of the three parts of the hip bone, forming its broad, wing-like upper section. Its top edge is the "iliac crest" you can feel at your waist.
Where it is
The upper, outer part of the pelvis on each side.
What it does
Supports the abdominal organs, anchors large hip and buttock muscles, and forms part of the hip socket and the joint with the spine.
Connections
Joints and connections
- Sacroiliac joint (with the sacrum)
- Part of the hip joint
When things go wrong
Common injuries and conditions
- Iliac crest injury ("hip pointer" bruise)
- Part of pelvic fractures
Education and reference only. This explains the anatomy in plain terms; it is not a diagnosis. A severe injury, a visibly deformed limb, or the inability to move or bear weight needs urgent assessment — call 999 or go to A&E for a serious injury.
Did you know?
An interesting fact
The iliac crest is a common site for taking bone marrow samples and bone grafts because it is easy to reach and rich in marrow.
Answers
Ilium: frequently asked questions
What is the ilium?
The ilium is the large, fan-shaped upper part of the hip bone — the part you rest your hands on at your waist.
Explore the pelvis
Related bones
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Anatomy and body systems
- Gray's Anatomy for Students (Drake, Vogl, Mitchell)
- TeachMeAnatomy — skeletal system
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