The hip bone, also known as the acetabulum or pelvis, is an essential part of the human skeletal system. In children, this bone is not a single structure but is made up of three separate bones: the ilium, ischium, and pubis. Each of these bones plays a crucial role in the development of the pelvis as the child grows.
The ilium is the largest of the three bones and forms the upper part of the hip bone. It’s the portion you can feel when you place your hands on your hips. The ischium is located at the back and bottom of the hip bone, providing structural support when sitting. The pubis is situated at the front and is connected to the other pubic bone at the pubic symphysis.
During adolescence, around the age of 16 to 18, these three bones undergo a process called fusion. This means they join together to form a single, solid structure that constitutes the adult hip bone. This fusion process is crucial for the stability and strength of the pelvis as it adapts to the increasing physical demands of adulthood.
In summary, the ilium, ischium, and pubis are the three bones of a child’s pelvis that fuse to form the hip bone of an adult, ensuring a sturdy foundation for movement and balance in life.