sacrale

Sacrale is an adjective used primarily in anatomy to describe structures related to the sacrum, the large, triangular bone at the base of the spine, or, less commonly, to the broader idea of something sacred. The term derives from the Latin sacralis, itself tied to sacrum, historically linked to the notion of sacred bones.

In anatomy, the sacrum forms the posterior part of the pelvic girdle and consists of five fused vertebrae. It articulates with the two ilia at the sacroiliac joints and with the last lumbar vertebra above, contributing to the stability and strength of the pelvic ring. The sacral canal runs within the bone and contains sacral nerve roots; seven openings on each side, the sacral foramina, allow the ventral and dorsal rami to exit. The sacral nerves (S1–S5) contribute to the sacral plexus, which gives rise to several important nerves, including the sciatic, pudendal, and gluteal nerves. The sacrum also features landmarks such as the sacral promontory, which is clinically relevant in obstetrics and radiology.

Clinical relevance includes variations such as sacralization of L5 (partial or complete fusion of the fifth lumbar vertebra to the sacrum) and lumbarization of S1, as well as congenital sacral agenesis. The sacrum’s integrity is important for load transfer between the spine and pelvis, and sacroiliac joint dysfunction or sacral nerve compression can contribute to lower back and pelvic pain.

Beyond anatomy, sacral relates to the broader concept of sacredness in language, culture, and religious contexts, reflecting its etymological link to the sacred bone.