NBATA > Education & Research > Glossary of Terms

Hip, Groin, and Lower Back

Coccyx.: The “tail bone”, a group of four fused vertebrae located at the terminal end of the spine.
Groin Strain.: Strain to the muscles that work to adduct the leg.
Hip Pointer.: Contusion to the iliac crest.
Intervertebral Disc.: A flat, rounded plate between each vertebra of the spine. The disc consists of a thick fiberous ring that surrounds a soft gel-like interior. It functions as a cushion and shock absorber for the spinal column.
Lumbar Vertebrae.: Five vertebrae of the lower back that articulate with the sacrum to form the lumbosacral joint.
Sacroiliac.: Junction of the sacrum with the hip bone.
Sacrum.: Group of five fused vertebrae located just below the lumbar vertebrae of the lower back.
Sciatica.: Irritation of the sciatic nerve resulting in pain or tingling in the leg.
Sciatic Nerve.: Major nerve that carries impulses for muscular action and sensations between the lower back and thigh and lower leg; it is the longest nerve in the body.
Spinous Process.: A small projection on the posterior portion of each vertebra that functions as an attachment site for muscles or ligaments of the spine.
Spondylitis.: Inflammation of one or more vertebrae.
Spondylolisthesis.: Forward displacement of one vertebra over another.
Spondylosis.: Abnormal vertebral fixation or immobility.
Transverse Process.: Small lateral projection off the right and left side of each vertebra that functions as an attachment site for muscles and ligaments of the spine.