The iliac crest forms the most prominent portion of the ilium, the largest of three bones that comprise the hip bone or bony pelvis.
It is the curved portion at the top of the hip that lies close to the skin and forms the wing-like part on the pelvis on which a person will sometimes rest their hands.
Iliac crest pain can also extend to other parts of the body, including the abdomen, back, and groin. The location of the pain depends on its cause.
The bony pelvis or hip bone provides stability, strength, and support to the organs and spine. It consists of three bones, namely the ilium, ischium, and pubis.
Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, CA, and surrounding locations.
Muscles Connected with Iliac Crest
Apart from dividing the abdomen and the pelvis, the iliac crest is connected to many vital muscles, such as:
- Gluteus maximus of the hip itself
- Latissimus dorsi or largest muscle in the back
- Main abdominals
How does iliac crest pain feel?
Iliac crest pain usually causes difficulty in performing normal movements. The type of pain that patients experience can vary.
In addition, pain may be experienced in areas other than the hip, so as many nerves and muscles are joined to the pelvis.
The exact location of the pain will depend on its underlying cause. However, the most commonly experienced symptom is lower back pain.
The pain may extend down the leg, through the butt, and into the groin. It can also cause dull aches in the buttocks or back or sharp muscle spasms in some people. Others may feel pain when walking, which may be made worse by twisting or bending.
Inflammation and tenderness can also be indications of iliac crest issues, specifically if caused by trauma.
Iliolumbar Syndrome
Iliac crest pain syndrome, also called iliolumbar syndrome, develops when there is a tear in the iliolumbar ligament. This can occur due to repeated bending and twisting movements and actions. It may also occur due to trauma, such as a car crash or fall.
The common symptoms of iliolumbar syndrome include the persistent severe pain in the lower back that can extend to the groin and hip. This pain may worsen when a person twists or bends.
Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome often occurs when muscles become too tight, usually due to wear and tear. This causes strain on the sciatic nerve. As a result, the pain spreads through the buttocks and hips.
This condition may develop due to exercising in worn gym shoes, causing pain in the pelvic area.
Gluteus Medius Pain
Pain near the iliac crest may occur due to a problem with the medius muscle. This may lead to reduced blood flow, range of movement, and flexibility as well as less nerve and muscle function.
Cancer of the Bone
In exceptional cases, iliac crest pain may occur due to cancer of the bone. But in most cases of iliac crest pain, the cause will be one of the above mentioned conditions.
Board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Garabekyan receives patients from Los Angeles, Century City, CA, and nearby areas for orthopedic surgery.
Dr. Tigran Garabekyan is a board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip preservation. To learn more about Southern California Hip Institute or to schedule a consultation, click here to contact us or call:
Century City / Los Angeles: 310.595.1030
Serving patients in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Century City, West Hollywood, North Hollywood Encino, Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Burbank, Glendale and other neighboring cities in the greater Los Angeles, California area.
Also visit http://www.drgorthopedics.com/
