What is the ischium?

The the sit bone is called the ischium. Gray's Anatomy (1918) describes it as the lower and back part of the hip bone.

What it is

  • The lower and back part of the hip bone.
  • Its rough lower end (the ischial tuberosity) is the bone you sit on.
  • One of the three parts that fuse to form the adult hip bone.

Where it is

  • At the back and bottom of the hip bone.
  • Below the ilium and behind the pubis.
  • Contributes to the lower rim of the acetabulum.

Source:

Last verified: 2026-07-18

  • Best Anatomy Answers is an educational reference about human anatomy. It is not medical advice — for any health concern, talk to a licensed medical professional.

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