Anatomy
A dense thickening of the deep fascia of the thigh. It attaches from the anterior aspect of the iliac crest to the lateral epicondyle of the femur and (Gerdy’s tubercle) anterolateral surface of the tibia.
The gluteus maximus and the tensor fasciae latae muscle both insert into it and tension it.
Functions
The gluteus maximus and the tensor fasciae latae hold the leg in extension through the iliotibial tract once the other muscles have extended it at the knee.
The iliotibial tract and its two associated muscles help stabilize the hip joint by stopping lateral movement of the head of the proximal femur away from the acetabulum.
Clinical
The iliotibial tract friction syndrome is a common overuse injury related to this area. It is very common in runners; the continuous rubbing of the iliotibial tract over the lateral epicondyle of the femur causing the band to become inflamed.
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