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FUNCTIONAL ANATOMY L i s te n to T h e A B M P Po d c a s t a t a b m p.co m /p o d c a s t s o r w h e reve r yo u a cce s s yo u r favo r i te p o d c a s t s 39 where it joins the tensor fasciae latae at the iliotibial band. All these muscles serve both postural and force-generating functions and, therefore, must be capable of both strength and endurance activity and anaerobic and aerobic energy production. Pathology and Purpose of Soft-Tissue Intervention The coxal joint is vulnerable to excessive compression, causing osteoarthritic changes due to high weight-bearing forces in this area. This is also a common site of stubborn postural deviations and compensatory patterns associated with low-back pain and other mechanical issues further down the kinetic chain (foot, ankle, or knee dysfunction). Poor mobility, joint stiffness, and muscle hypertonicity are more likely at the hip compared to the shoulder. Keep in mind that genetic variation, history of trauma, or surgical intervention can create instability at the coxal joint, though it is less common than at the glenohumeral joint. Proper assessment of both joint mobility and muscle length of stabilizers and prime movers at the hip is useful as part of postural assessment and movement analysis. Ensuring optimal range in all motions available and identifying specific movement limitations is a critical part of treatment and maintenance of optimal health for the lower extremities, pelvis, and spine. Christy Cael is a licensed massage therapist and certified strength and conditioning specialist. Her private practice focuses on injury treatment, biomechanical analysis, craniosacral therapy, and massage for clients with neurological issues. She is the author of Functional Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Palpation for Manual Therapists (New York: Jones & Bartlett Learning, 2010; jblearning.com). Contact her at christy_cael@hotmail.com. Gluteus medius (cut) Gluteus medius Gluteus maximus Adductor magnus Semitendinosus Semimembranosus Gracilis Sartorius Iliotibial band Biceps femoris (long head) Biceps femoris (short head) Popliteus Gluteus minimus Semitendinosus Biceps femoris (short head) Piriformis Obturator internus Gemellus inferior Quadratus femoris Posterior View