The correct spelling of "ala sacralis" is with the letter "a" followed by "l" and "a" again, then "s" followed by "a", "c", "r", "a", "l", "i", and "s". It is pronounced as [ˈɑːlə səˈkreɪlɪs]. The word refers to the wing-shaped part of the sacrum bone in the lower back of the body. Accurate spelling of medical terms is crucial for healthcare professionals as it facilitates proper diagnosis, treatment, and communication with other healthcare providers.
Ala sacralis refers to the wing-like extensions located on either side of the sacrum, in the pelvic region of the human skeleton. Derived from the Latin words "ala" meaning "wing" and "sacralis" meaning "pertaining to the sacrum," these structures are integral parts of the sacrum, which is a triangular bone consisting of five fused vertebrae at the base of the spine.
The ala sacralis acts as an important attachment point for various ligaments and muscles involved in stabilizing and supporting the pelvic region. Additionally, they aid in providing surface area for the distribution of weight from the upper body to the lower limbs. These bilateral extensions form a wider base for the sacrum, facilitating the transmission of forces between the axial skeleton and the lower extremities during weight-bearing activities.
Anatomically, the ala sacralis serves as a landmark in medical imaging and surgical procedures, helping to identify the sacrum and orient it correctly within the pelvic cavity. The shape and size of the ala sacralis can vary among individuals, although they generally possess a triangular or roughly fan-like appearance.
Understanding the structure and function of the ala sacralis is crucial in fields such as anatomy, orthopedics, and physical therapy, as it allows professionals to comprehend the biomechanics of the lower spine and pelvis, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of various musculoskeletal disorders or injuries in this region.
A broad flat projection on either side of the articular surface of the base of the sacrum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "ala" is derived from the Latin word "ala", meaning "wing". It is often used in anatomy to refer to a wing-like structure or an extension.
The term "sacralis" comes from the Latin word "sacrum", referring to the sacrum bone, which is the triangular bone at the base of the spine between the two hip bones.
Therefore, the etymology of the term "ala sacralis" essentially means "sacral wing" or "wing-like extension of the sacrum".