ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z                    HOME ABOUT CATEGORIES SITE MAP COPYRIGHT ADVERTISE CONTACT entire Web this site hip joint The ball-and-socket joint between the upper end of the femur (thigh bone) and the pelvis. The rounded head of the femur fits into the a deep hollow in the pelvis called the acetabulum. Both surfaces are covered by articular cartilage. Tough ligaments attach the femur to the pelvis, further stabilizing the joint and giving in the necessary strength to support the weight of the upper body and to take the strain of running, jumping, and other vigorous leg movements. The ball-and-socket nature of the joint also allows the leg a considerable range of movement. The main ligaments of the hip attach at one end to the broad surfaces of the ilium – part of the pelvis – and at the other end to the femur. The way in which they attach has the combined effects of limiting certain movements and olding the head of the femur firmly into the acetabulum. The most important ligament is the iliofemoral ligament. The other two important ligaments are the pubofemoral and ischiocapsular ligaments. Related category    • ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) BACK TO TOP