hip joint anatomy

The hip joint is where the thighbone (femur) meets the pelvis, functioning as a ball-and-socket joint. The round top of the femur (head) fits snugly into a cup-shaped socket in the pelvis called the acetabulum. This design allows for a wide range of movements like walking, running, and sitting. Cartilage covers both the head of the femur and the socket, helping the joint move smoothly. Ligaments and muscles around the joint provide stability and control. Overall, the hip joint supports weight, movement, and balance, making it one of the body's most important and flexible joints.