Tensor Fasciae Latae

The Tensor Fasciae Latae is a small muscle of the thigh which attaches inferiorly to the long thick strip of fascia, known at the iliotibial band.

Anatomy of the Tensor Fasciae Latae

The Sartorius muscle is innervated by the superior gluteal nerve and supplied by the lateral circumflex femoral artery and the superior gluteal artery.

The Tensor Fasciae Latae arises from the anterior part of the outer lip of the iliac crest; from the outer surface of the anterior superior iliac spine, and part of the outer border of the notch below it, between the gluteus medius and sartorius; and from the deep surface of the fascia lata.

It is inserted between the two layers of the iliotibial band of the fascia lata about the junction of the middle and upper thirds of the thigh.

Functions of the Tensor Fasciae Latae

The Tensor Fasciae Latae muscle has three main functions:

• Trunk stabilization,
• Flexion of the hip, and
• Hip abduction

It steadies the pelvis upon the head of the femur and steadies the condyles of the femur and also assists the gluteus maximus in supporting the knee in the extended position.

You will use the Tensor Fasciae Latae daily every time you walk since it is important in keeping one foot in front of the other when walking.

Some of the best exercises to strengthen the gluteus maximus include the outer hip stretch, standing outer hip stretch, standing and laying hip abduction preferably using a resistance band.

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