Tensor fasciae latae
Tensor fasciae latae
- Latin synonym: Musculus tensor fasciae latae
- Synonym: Tensor fasciae latae muscle; Tensor of fascia lata
- Related terms: Tensor of fascia lata
Definition
Tensor fasciae latae (muscle group: Superficial gluteal muscles) | |
Origin | Iliac crest |
Insertion | Illiotibial tract |
Blood supply | Primarily lateral circumflex femoral artery, Superior gluteal artery |
Innervation | Superior gluteal nerve (L4, L5, S1) |
Action | Thigh - flexion, medial rotation. Trunk stabilization. |
The tensor fasciae latae (TFL) is a small, fusiform muscle located on the lateral aspect of the thigh, in the superior part of the anterior compartment. It acts as both a hip flexor and abductor and plays a major role in the stabilization of the hip and knee joints through tension of the iliotibial tract (IT band).
Origin
It arises from the outer lip of the iliac crest, extending from the anterior superior iliac spine to the tubercle of iliac crest.
Insertion
The muscle descends downward and slightly posteriorly to insert into the iliotibial tract (IT band), which continues to attach to the lateral condyle of the tibia.
Innervation
Superior gluteal nerve (L4 to S1 spinal nerve roots) — same as gluteus medius and minimus.
Functions
Contributes to hip flexion and abduction,
Works synergistically with the gluteus medius and minimus to stabilize the pelvis during walking.
Provides dynamic tension to the IT band, which supports both the lateral hip and lateral knee.
Clinical correlates
Tensor fasciae latae tightness: Common in runners and cyclists; contributes to iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) with pain over the lateral knee.
Superior gluteal nerve injury: Weakness of TFL along with gluteus medius and minimus → pelvic instability and Trendelenburg gait.
References
Gray, H. (2016) Gray’s Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 41st edn. Edited by S. Standring. New York: Elsevier. Chapter 80: Pelvic girdle, gluteal region and thigh, pp. 1356-1358.
Recover Athletics. (n.d.) How to fix TFL tightness from running (Tensor Fascia Latae). Available at: https://recoverathletics.com/how-to-fix-tfl-tightness-from-running-tensor-fascia-latae/ (Accessed: 14 January 2026).
