Tensor Fasciae Latae
Musculus tensor fasciae latae
The tensor fasciae latae (TFL) is a small anterolateral hip muscle that flexes, abducts, and internally rotates the hip while tensioning the iliotibial tract to stabilize the knee. It often becomes overactive and tight in lifters with limited glute recruitment, contributing to IT-band tightness. Targeted glute medius work and mobility help balance an overworked TFL.
- Actions
- Hip flexion, Hip abduction, Hip internal rotation, Tensing the iliotibial tract / knee stabilization
- Origin
- Anterior superior iliac spine and anterior part of the outer lip of the iliac crest
- Insertion
- Iliotibial tract, which attaches to Gerdy's tubercle on the lateral tibial condyle
- Innervation
- Superior gluteal nerve (L4-S1)
- Blood supply
- Superior gluteal artery and lateral circumflex femoral artery
Synergists Gluteus MediusGluteus MinimusRectus Femoris
Antagonists Gluteus MaximusAdductor LongusAdductor Magnus
Tendons Iliotibial Tract