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Tensor fasciae latae (anatomy)

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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Tensor fasciae latae is one of the anterior thigh muscles. It is enclosed between the layers of fascia lata.

It originates from the external lip of the iliac crest between the anterior superior iliac spine and the tubercle of the crest. Fusiform in shape, it is initially thin but then becomes broader as it descends to insert into the iliotibial tract. The iliotibial tract inserts into the anterolateral surface of the lateral tibial condyle.

Innervation is provided by the superior gluteal nerve (L4, L5).

Its actions are varied:

  • abduction and flexion at hip
  • weak extension of knee joint
  • stabilize the pelvis during walking
  • counters the pull of gluteus maximus on the iliotibial tract

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