lumbosacrala

Lumbosacrala is not a widely used term in standard anatomy; when encountered, it generally refers to the lumbosacral region of the spine, the area where the lumbar spine meets the sacrum. In most texts the preferred term is lumbosacral. This region encompasses the lower thoracic and lumbar spine (typically from about L1 to S1) and the adjacent sacral region, forming a key junction for load transfer between the spine and pelvis and enabling a wide range of lower back and hip movements.

Anatomy and structure: The lumbosacral region includes the lumbar vertebrae L1–L5 and the sacrum, with the L5–S1 intervertebral joint being the lumbosacral junction. It is stabilized by ligaments such as the iliolumbar, anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments, and the facet joints between vertebrae. The sacroiliac joints link the sacrum to the ilia of the pelvis and play a role in pelvic stability. Nerves in this area arise from the lumbar and sacral plexuses, with nerve roots L1–S5 contributing to the lower limbs.

Function and clinical relevance: The lumbosacral region bears substantial axial loads and allows flexion, extension, and side bending of the torso, while also providing pathways for motor and sensory nerves to the legs. Common clinical problems involve the L5–S1 level, including disc herniation, degenerative disc disease, and spondylolisthesis, which can cause low back pain and radicular symptoms (sciatica). Evaluations consider physical exam findings, nerve root distribution, and imaging results.

Imaging and management: Diagnostic approaches typically include plain radiographs and MRI; CT may be used for detail of bony anatomy. Treatment ranges from conservative measures—physical therapy, analgesics, and injections—to surgical interventions such as decompression or fusion at the lumbosacral junction in selected cases.