Anatomy · functional reading
Sacrospinous ligament
The sacrospinous ligament connects the sacrum and coccyx to the ischial spine and contributes to the mechanical organization of the posterior pelvis.
Scientific basis
The sacrospinous ligament extends from the lateral part of the sacrum and coccyx to the ischial spine. Together with the sacrotuberous ligament, it helps organize the anatomical passages of the pelvic region and is a major landmark along the course of the pudendal nerve. The pudendal nerve passes in immediate proximity to this region before reaching Alcock’s canal.
Blue Portance / SBNFA™ reading
In the SBNFA™, ligaments are not considered isolated or purely passive elements. They take part in a system comprising bony structures, muscles, fascia, nerves and joints. They contribute to the organization and transmission of mechanical stress.
Contribution to the analysis of sitting
Changes in pelvic orientation can alter the geometric relationships between the sacrum, ischium, ligaments, muscles and nerve structures. This region is therefore of particular interest when studying the effects of prolonged or low-variability sitting.
Not to be confused with
Sacrotuberous ligament, a neighboring structure; ligamentous clamp, the region where the pudendal nerve passes between these structures.
Sources and scope
- Robert et al. (2009): anatomical relationships between the pudendal nerve and the sacrospinous ligament
- Robert et al. (1998): anatomic basis of pudendal nerve entrapment
- Ziouziou et al. (2013): sacrospinous ligament and Alcock’s canal syndrome
An anatomical relationship with the pudendal nerve does not mean that a mechanical conflict necessarily exists.
Further reading
- Learn more — Article: Pudendal Neuralgia: Why Can a Simple Sitting Position Become an Ordeal?
- Go further — Expert guide: Mechanical Vulnerability and Pudendal Nerve Entrapment Mechanisms
