Sacralisation-changing concept

Abstract

Low back pain is a common complaint among middle aged and elderly persons. There are many causes but one of it could be sacralisation of lumbar vertebra. Sacralisation means addition of sacral elements by the incorporation of the fifth lumbar vertebra. The incorporation of the fifth lumbar vertebra with the sacrum may be unilateral or bilateral producing partial or complete sacralisation. Sacralisation is commonly regarded as a cause of altered patterns of degenerative spine changes. This review will focus on whether sacralisation of the fifth lumbar vertebra is a radiological entity or a clinical entity.