Muscle
Tensor fasciae latae
Lateral hip muscle that tensions the iliotibial tract
High-yield
It shares superior gluteal nerve supply with gluteus medius and minimus. By tensioning the iliotibial tract, it contributes to pelvic and knee control as well as assisting hip movement.
Overview
Tensor fasciae latae sits at the front and outer side of the hip. Its fibers merge into the iliotibial tract, allowing a relatively short muscle to influence the longer fascial connection toward the knee.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Anterior superior iliac spine and the neighboring anterior outer lip of the iliac crest
- Insertion
- Iliotibial tract, which continues to the anterolateral tibia at Gerdy's tubercle and has other regional connections
- Action
- Assists hip flexion, abduction and internal rotation; tensions the fascia lata and contributes to hip and knee stability
- Innervation
- Superior gluteal nerve, carrying mainly L4-S1 fibers
- Blood supply
- Superior gluteal and lateral circumflex femoral arterial branches
Clinical correlation
Iliotibial band syndrome can cause outer knee pain in runners and cyclists. Compression of sensitive tissue beneath the band is one supported explanation; the condition should not be reduced to a band simply rubbing back and forth over bone.
Frequently asked questions
What does the tensor fasciae latae do?
Assists hip flexion, abduction and internal rotation; tensions the fascia lata and contributes to hip and knee stability.
What nerve innervates the tensor fasciae latae?
Superior gluteal nerve, carrying mainly L4-S1 fibers.
Where does the tensor fasciae latae attach?
Origin: Anterior superior iliac spine and the neighboring anterior outer lip of the iliac crest. Insertion: Iliotibial tract, which continues to the anterolateral tibia at Gerdy's tubercle and has other regional connections.
What is the blood supply of the tensor fasciae latae?
Superior gluteal and lateral circumflex femoral arterial branches.