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functional anatomy BY CHRISTY CAEL TENSOR FASCIAE LATAE Gluteus medius Sartorius Tensor fascia latae Gluteus maximus Rectus femoris Biceps femoris (long head) Vastus lateralis lliotibial band Biceps femoris (short head) The tensor fasciae latae is a relatively small muscle that lies on the lateral edge of the anterior hip. When paired with the sartorius, it forms an upside- down V on the front of the thigh. This V-shape is bisected by the rectus femoris, which runs down the anterior thigh. All three of these muscles flex the hip, but the tensor fasciae latae and sartorius rotate the lower extremity in opposite directions. Rotation here directs the position of a swinging leg and helps control movement when the lower extremity pivots over a planted foot. The iliotibial band, a large, thick tendon TENSOR FASCIAE LATAE Actions • Flexes the hip • Abducts the hip • Internally rotates the hip Innervation • Superior gluteal nerve • L4–S1 Attachments • Origin: Anterolateral lip of iliac crest • Insertion: Lateral tibial condyle via the iliotibial band associated with the tensor fasciae, is a primary stabilizer for the hip and lateral knee. Both the tensor fasciae latae (anterior) and gluteus maximus (posterior) descend laterally into the iliotibial band. This thick structure connects the anterior and posterior pelvis to the lateral hip and knee. Its distal fibers assist the lateral collateral ligament in limiting separation between the lateral condyles of the femur and tibia (varus stress) and increases stability at the tibiofemoral joint. Tightness in the tensor fasciae latae, gluteus maximus, and associated iliotibial band can create a variety of issues. Shortness here creates friction proximally on the greater trochanter or distally on the lateral condyle of the femur, which may injure and inflame the tendon or underlying bursae. Maintaining flexibility in the iliotibial band and proper alignment of the lower extremity helps prevent these repetitive stress pathologies. earn CE hours at your convenience: abmp's online education center, www.abmp.com 91