Tensor Fasciae Latae (“TFL”)

Joe Muscolino

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Right lateral view of the tensor fasciae latae (TFL). The iliotibial band is shown. The gluteus maximus has been drawn in.
ATTACHMENTS:

  • The tensor fasciae latae (TFL) attaches from the ASIS and anterior iliac crest to the iliotibial band (ITB), one-third of the way down the thigh.

 

ACTIONS:

  • The TFL flexes, abducts, and medially rotates the thigh at the hip joint.
  • It anteriorly tilts, depresses, and ipsilaterally rotates the same-side pelvis at the hip joint.

 

NOTES:

  1. The tensor fasciae latae is one of two muscles that attach into the iliotibial band (ITB). The other muscle is the gluteus maximus.
  2. A chronically tight tensor fasciae latae can be involved in ITB friction syndrome.