Iliopsoas muscle

Iliopsoas Muscle

File:Iliopsoas muscle.png

The Iliopsoas muscle, composed of the psoas major and the iliacus at the hip.

The Iliopsoas muscle refers to the combination of the psoas major and the iliacus muscle. These muscles are distinct in the abdomen, but merge in the thigh to form a common tendon on the femur. This muscle group is the strongest of the hip flexors.

Anatomy

The iliopsoas muscle is composed of two muscles: the psoas major and the iliacus. The psoas major originates along the lateral surfaces of the vertebral bodies of T12 and L1-L3 and their associated intervertebral discs. The iliacus originates in the iliac fossa of the pelvis.

File:Psoas major muscle.png

Psoas major muscle

The two muscles converge to form a common tendon, which inserts onto the lesser trochanter of the femur. This common insertion point is the reason these two muscles are often considered one.

Function

The iliopsoas muscle is the primary hip flexor and plays a key role in lifting the upper leg in relation to the body's torso. It also assists in lateral rotation of the femur.

Clinical significance

Tightness or inflammation of the iliopsoas muscle can lead to a condition known as Iliopsoas syndrome, which can cause pain in the lower back or hip area.

See also

• Psoas minor muscle
• Iliopsoas tendonitis
• Hip flexors