Anatomy of the inguinal ligament
The inguinal ligament is called Ligamentum inguinale in the technical language and is a connective tissue structure in the area of the pelvis. It runs between the anterior upper iliac spine (Spina iliaca anterior superior) and a protrusion of the pubic bone (Tuberculum pubicum). The inguinal ligament is the lower part of the protrusion of the abdominal muscles. It is part of the boundary for the passage of muscles and vessels of the hip and abdominal region and forms part of the inguinal canal boundary. The visible inguinal furrow at the transition from abdomen to thigh is created by the attachment of the inguinal ligament to the abdominal skin.
The function of the inguinal ligament
The inguinal band has several functions. On the one hand, it forms the connection between the pelvic space and the leg, which is why the important conductive pathways also run at this point. These are the femoral artery and vein, which supply the entire leg region.
This means that all blood flows past the inguinal ligament and circulates through the legs. The femoral nerve, which innervates the leg extensors, also runs through here. The inguinal ligament also has a supporting function by guaranteeing the suspension of the connective tissue sheaths of the thighs. It also supports the organs of the abdominal cavity and ensures that they remain in the abdomen.
Can the inguinal ligament be stretched?
In fact, the inguinal ligament can be stretched and strengthened by means of various exercises. These exercises are recommended for the prevention of groin strain, but also to relieve existing pain in the groin area. However, if you have a problem, you should always check with your doctor to see which exercises are appropriate, otherwise a further injury cannot be ruled out.
In order to stretch the inguinal ligament, one can perform lunge steps. Ideally, you change the leg that is bent each time to exercise the ligaments on both sides. Another exercise is hip stretching. Here you kneel on a mat, support yourself with both hands on the floor and try to spread your legs as far as possible.
All articles in this series:
