Lower Body: Pelvic Girdle and Legs
Your pelvic girdle forms a strong, stable base for your lower body. It consists of three fused bones: the ilium (upper), ischium (middle), and pubis (lower). Together they create the acetabulum—a deep socket where your thigh bone connects.
Unlike your shoulders, which prioritize mobility, your hips emphasize strength and stability. They transfer weight from your upper body to your legs and protect internal organs with some of the strongest ligaments in your body.
The femur (thigh bone) is your longest and strongest bone, connecting to your lower leg through the knee joint, protected by the patella (kneecap). Your lower leg contains two bones: the weight-bearing tibia (shinbone) aligned with your big toe, and the thinner fibula for balance and stability.
Remember this: Your foot contains 26 bones, including 7 tarsals (ankle bones), 5 metatarsals (midfoot), and 14 phalanges (toes). The calcaneus (heel bone) is your largest foot bone and absorbs shock when walking or running.