Human Vertebral Model With Pelvis & Femur Heads

Quick Answer: The Human Vertebral Model With Pelvis & Femur Heads is a spine model with pelvis and the heads of both femurs attached. It shows how the vertebral column rests on the sacrum, how the pelvis balances on the hip joints and how the three regions move together.

The Lumbar Spine, Pelvis and Hips as One Unit

Clinicians treat the lower spine, pelvis and hips as a single linked system, and this model is built to show that link. The fifth lumbar vertebra sits on the sacrum at the lumbosacral junction, a site of heavy load and a common level for disc problems. The sacrum is wedged between the two iliac bones at the sacroiliac joints, which move only slightly, and the pelvis in turn rests on the femoral heads in the acetabula, the ball-and-socket hip joints.

With the femur heads in place, students can see how pelvic tilt changes the spine above it. Tipping the pelvis forward, anterior tilt, deepens the lumbar curve; posterior tilt flattens it. If one leg is effectively shorter, the pelvis drops on that side and the lumbar spine bends sideways to keep the trunk upright. The model also helps to explain spondylolisthesis, where one vertebra slips forward on the one below, often L5 on the sacrum.

The listing does not say whether the full column or only part of it is shown, or whether discs, nerves, a stand or flexible mounting are included. For the pelvis with the lumbar region alone, see the pelvis with five lumbar vertebrae model; the vertebral column with skull covers the top of the spine.

Clinical and Classroom Uses

• Physiotherapy lessons on pelvic tilt, core stability and low back pain
• Explaining sciatica, disc herniation and spondylolisthesis to students and patients
• Gait and posture teaching that links hip position to the lumbar curve
• Anatomy practicals on the sacroiliac and hip joints

Specifications

Care of the Model

• Lift the spine model with pelvis by the pelvis and the upper column together; the femur heads should not carry the weight.
• Check that the femoral heads sit correctly in their sockets after demonstrations of hip movement.
• Dust the model regularly and wipe it with a slightly damp cloth, avoiding solvents.
• Keep it on its stand or lying flat so the column is not bent under load.

Why Choose LabEquip

Physiotherapy and chiropractic colleges, sports medicine units and orthopaedic teaching clinics choose this configuration because back pain lessons rarely stop at the spine. LabEquip lists it in Biology Lab Products; ask about mounting and included parts through the contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does this spine model include the pelvis and femur heads?

The lower spine, pelvis and hips move as a linked unit. Including the femur heads shows how the pelvis balances on the hip joints and how its tilt changes the curve of the lumbar spine above.

What is anterior pelvic tilt?

It is a forward rotation of the pelvis on the femoral heads, which deepens the lumbar curve. Posterior tilt is the opposite and flattens the lower back; both can be shown by rocking the pelvis on the model.

Where is the sacroiliac joint?

It lies on each side between the sacrum and the ilium of the pelvis. The joint is strong and moves only slightly, transferring the weight of the upper body to the pelvis and legs.

What is spondylolisthesis?

It is a forward slip of one vertebra over the one below, commonly the fifth lumbar vertebra over the sacrum. It can cause low back pain and, when nerves are compressed, leg symptoms.

How can a leg length difference affect the spine?

When one leg is effectively shorter, the pelvis dips on that side and the lumbar spine bends sideways to keep the trunk upright. Tilting the pelvis on the model illustrates this compensation.

Is the model mounted and can the spine bend?

Spine and pelvis models are supplied either rigid or on a flexible core, on a stand or hanging. The listing does not specify either, so confirm them when you enquire.

Last Updated: September 2026