3D CONTENT
3D OSTEOLOGY
3D THORAX

COCCYX ANATOMY

Author: Dr. Bogdan Leahu
← Lumbar Vertebrae Occipital Bone →
Coccyx anatomy 360-degree interactive viewer showing x-ray visualization of base, coccygeal horns, and apex
Get the Full 3D Experience

Coccyx - X-ray Mode Overview, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

OVERVIEW

  • The coccyx, or tailbone, is the lowermost part of the spine
  • Connects to the apex of the sacrum, forming the coccygeal segment of the vertebral column
  • Features three main anatomical components:
    • Base
    • Coccygeal horns (cornua)
    • Apex

BASE OF THE COCCYX

Coccyx 360-degree viewer showing base, coccygeal horns, and apex with sacrococcygeal articulation
Get the Full 3D Experience

Coccyx - General Structure, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

  • Broad, uppermost portion of the coccyx
  • Articulates with the apex of the sacrum through an oval-shaped facet

COCCYGEAL HORNS (CORNUA)

  • Upward-projecting structures on the posterior aspect of the coccyx
  • Align with the sacral horns to form a connection between the sacrum and coccyx

APEX OF THE COCCYX

  • Tapered lower tip of the coccyx, pointing downward
  • Functions as an anchor point for ligaments supporting pelvic structures

BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. Henry G, Warren HL. Osteology. In: Anatomy of the Human Body. 20th ed. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger; 1918. p. 129–97.

QUICK FACTS: COCCYX

Key questions answered about this anatomy topic

Q: What is another common name for the coccyx?

Answer: Tailbone. The coccyx is commonly referred to as the tailbone. It is the lowermost part of the spine.

Q: Which structure does the coccyx connect to?

Answer: The apex of the sacrum. The coccyx connects to the apex of the sacrum, forming the coccygeal segment of the vertebral column.

Q: What type of facet is found at the base of the coccyx for articulation with the sacrum?

Answer: Oval-shaped facet. The base of the coccyx articulates with the apex of the sacrum through an oval-shaped facet.

Q: Where are the coccygeal horns (cornua) located?

Answer: Posterior aspect of the coccyx. The coccygeal horns (cornua) are upward-projecting structures located on the posterior aspect of the coccyx.

Q: The coccygeal horns align with which structures to form a connection between the sacrum and coccyx?

Answer: Sacral horns. The coccygeal horns align with the sacral horns to form a connection between the sacrum and coccyx.

Want to test yourself? Try the interactive quiz above!

⋮⋮ Coccyx Quiz
Loading... Score: 0