National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) Practice Exam

The correct answer identifies the three bones that make up each coxal bone, which are the ilium, ischium, and pubis. These bones are integral components of the pelvic girdle. The ilium is the largest of the three, forming the superior portion of the coxal bone and creating the prominence of the hip. The ischium is located inferiorly and posteriorly, making up the lower and back part of the coxal bone, and is crucial for bearing weight when sitting. The pubis is the anterior portion of the coxal bone, situated in the front, and it contributes to the pelvic cavity’s structure. Each of these bones meets at the acetabulum, which is the socket for the femur and plays a vital role in the hip joint's functionality. Understanding these components is fundamental in fields related to anatomy, physical therapy, and massage therapy, as it relates to body mechanics and movement.