The Hip Complex
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The musculature spanning the hip — including the iliopsoas, tensor fasciae latae, sartorius and the iliotibial band — that flexes, extends, adducts, abducts, and rotates the hip.
Detail
The Hip Complex diagram identifies the deep anterior hip musculature — psoas minor, psoas major, and iliacus — together with the tensor fasciae latae, iliotibial band, and sartorius. The hip joint is moved by several muscle groups: hip flexors, hip extensors, hip adductors, hip abductors, and hip lateral rotators. Flexing the hip can occur by moving the pelvis (flexion of the pelvis at the hip) or by moving the thigh (flexion of the femur at the hip).
Key facts
- Deep anterior hip muscles shown: psoas minor, psoas major, iliacus.
- Lateral structures: tensor fasciae latae, iliotibial band, sartorius.
- Hip flexion can occur by moving the pelvis OR by moving the thigh (femur) at the hip.
Connections
- Hip Joint Range of Motion — hip ROM values.
- Hip Flexors — flex the hip.
- Hip Extensors — extend the hip.
- Iliopsoas — major hip flexor.
- Tensor Fascia Lata — hip flexor / abductor / medial rotator.
Sources
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Educational content only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for individualized guidance, especially around injury, pregnancy, or medical conditions.