GLOSSARY

The iliacus is a broad, triangular muscle that lines the iliac fossa on the inner surface of the pelvis and forms the iliopsoas together with the psoas major.

Attachments and Innervation

• Origin: the upper two-thirds of the iliac fossa, the inner iliac crest, and the ala of the sacrum.
• Insertion: the lesser trochanter via the common tendon with the psoas, with some fibres attaching directly to the femur below it.
• Nerve: the femoral nerve (L2 and L3).

Actions

• Hip flexion.
• Anterior pelvic tilt when the femur is fixed.
• Hip joint stability and pelvic control.

Key Points