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
Frequently asked questions
What does the tensor fasciae latae do?
The tensor fasciae latae flexes, abducts, and medially rotates the thigh; tenses the fascia lata and steadies the knee.
What nerve innervates the tensor fasciae latae?
The tensor fasciae latae is innervated by the superior gluteal nerve (L4, L5, S1).
Where does the tensor fasciae latae attach?
The tensor fasciae latae originates from the anterior superior iliac spine and anterior iliac crest and inserts on the iliotibial tract (to the lateral condyle of the tibia).
What is the blood supply of the tensor fasciae latae?
The tensor fasciae latae is supplied by the superior gluteal / lateral femoral circumflex arteries.