Muscle
Tensor fasciae latae
Tenses the IT tract
High-yield
Superior gluteal nerve; tenses the IT band and helps stabilise the extended knee.
Overview
A short muscle enclosed in the fascia lata that tenses the iliotibial tract and assists hip flexion and abduction.
Reference facts
- Origin
Anterior superior iliac spine and anterior iliac crest
- Insertion
Iliotibial tract (to the lateral condyle of the tibia)
- Action
Flexes, abducts, and medially rotates the thigh; tenses the fascia lata and steadies the knee
- Innervation
Superior gluteal nerve (L4, L5, S1)
- Blood supply
Superior gluteal / lateral femoral circumflex arteries