# What is the tensor fasciae latae?

The tensor fasciae latae is called the tensor fasciae latae. Gray's Anatomy (1918) describes it as a short muscle on the outer side of the hip.

## What it means

- A short muscle on the outer side of the hip.
- Tenses the iliotibial tract, a thick fibrous band on the outside of the thigh.
- Bends the hip and rotates the thigh inward.

## Action steps

1. On the outer side of the hip, in front of the gluteal muscles.
2. Arises from the outer lip of the iliac crest.
3. Inserts into the iliotibial tract.

## Sources

- [Gray's Anatomy of the Human Body (1918)](https://www.bartleby.com/107/)

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