Pubic Symphysis Joint

Joe Muscolino

Share This
Congratulations on learning the bones and joints! Click here to learn the muscles with our Muscle Anatomy Master Class. Learn more…

 

  • Click here for access to the full Anatomy Glossary.
  • Right click on the image for a downloadable file of this muscle.
  • Use of this artwork requires proper credit to be given (Permission: Dr. Joe Muscolino. www.learnmuscles.com – photography by David Eliot)

    •  

    • The pubic symphysis joint is located anteriorly between the two pubic bones of the bony pelvis.
      • More specifically, the pubic symphysis joint is located between the bodies of the two pubic bones.
    • The pubic symphysis is an amphiarthrotic, cartilaginous, symphysis joint.
    • It allows small but important motion between the two pelvic bones.

     

    NOTES:

    1. When we are born, the SIJ is a synovial diarthrotic joint; as we age and place continuing physical stress forces into the joint, it gradually evolves to become a fibrous amphiarthrotic joint.
    2. The SIJ is likely the most controversial joint in the human body. But even though its motions are small, they can be very important. And pain and dysfunction often occur at the SIJ.
    3. The posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) is an extremely useful landmark when looking to palpate and locate the SIJ.

     

    Anterior view of the bony pelvis, demonstrating the pubis symphysis and sacroiliac joints.

    Anterior view of the bony pelvis, demonstrating the pubis symphysis and sacroiliac joints.

     

    Posterior view of the bony pelvis, demonstrating the pubis symphysis and sacroiliac joints.

    Posterior view of the bony pelvis, demonstrating the pubis symphysis and sacroiliac joints.

     

    Superior view of the bony pelvis, demonstrating the pubis symphysis and sacroiliac joints.

    Superior view of the bony pelvis, demonstrating the pubis symphysis and sacroiliac joints.