Musculus tensor fasciae latae
The tensor fasciae latae originates from the tuber coxae (point of hip) of the ilium and inserts together with the fascia lata on the patella, lateral patellar ligament, and cranial border of the tibia. It blends with the superficial gluteal muscle toward the third trochanter. Its actions are to tense the fascia lata, flex the hip, protract the hindlimb, and extend the stifle. It is innervated by the cranial gluteal nerve (roughly L5-S1). It forms the cranial border of the thigh.
Origin: Tuber coxae (point of hip) of the ilium
Insertion: Fascia lata and lateral patellar ligament
Action: Tenses fascia lata; flexes the hip; extends the stifle
Innervation: Cranial gluteal nerve (L5-S1)
Isolated injury is uncommon. Relevant in evaluations of hip flexion and cranial thigh trauma.
## Overview Effects of a tuber coxae fracture include sudden lameness, dramatic swelling at the point of the hip, a knocked-down appearance, asymmetric hip height, and temporary difficulty advancing
Sudden swelling or reduced hip flexion after trauma should be evaluated.
## Overview Effects of a tuber coxae fracture include sudden lameness, dramatic swelling at the point of the hip, a knocked-down appearance, asymmetric hip height, and temporary difficulty advancing the hind limb. The fracture avulses muscle origins, contributing to the swelling. Most effects resolve with rest except the permanent change in contour. ## Causes Trauma, often from running through a doorway or rolling. ## Diagnosis Clinical appearance and imaging. ## Treatment Rest and anti-inflammatories. ## Recovery and Prognosis Excellent functionally. Cosmetic asymmetry remains. ## Prevention Avoid narrow doorways and hazardous fencing. Signs include: sudden severe lameness; visible swelling at the point of the hip; knocked-down hip appearance; asymmetric hip height; difficulty advancing the hind limb
Isolated injury is uncommon. Relevant in evaluations of hip flexion and cranial thigh trauma.
Sudden swelling or reduced hip flexion after trauma should be evaluated.
See the Tensor Fasciae Latae on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model