Tractus iliotibialis

The tractus iliotibialis is an anatomical structure that serves to reinforce the so-called fascia lata. The fascia lata itself is a kind of connective tissue sheath to cover the outer thigh muscles. The actual function of the tractus iliotibialis is to provide a “tension belt” against laterally oriented physical forces.

The term “tension belt” is more precisely defined as a firm tension on the side facing away from the load by contraction of the muscles. One also speaks of a reduction of “varus stress”. In medical terminology, the tractus iliotibialis is also known as aponeurosis on the lateral thigh. The tractus iliotibialis thus represents a kind of link between the knee and hip.

Anatomy

In general, the iliotibial tract is formed by the tendon fibres of the following muscles Musculus tensor fasciae latae This muscle is one of the external hip muscles originating from the anterior superior iliac spine and its tendons radiate into the iliotibilais tractus a Musculus gluteus maximus Very strong muscle with a broad tendon that originates from the posterior surface of the cross or It has and has its origin in the front part (towards the pelvis) of the tractus iliotibialis (fascia of the) Musculus gluteus medius As a muscle, it is almost completely covered by the M. gluteus maximus described above. It originates from the iliac crest of the pelvis and ends at the large rolling mound of the femur.

  • Musculus tensor fasciae latae
  • Musculus gluteus maximus
  • (Fascia of the) Musculus gluteus medius

The origin of this connective tissue area is the anterior superior iliac spine (anterior upper iliac spine) and has its origin at the lateral bony projection of the tibia.

This bony prominence is also known as the “Gerdy hump”. During the stretching or bending movement of the knee, as is the case when walking, the iliotibial tract glides over the lateral articular process of the femur. Excessive strain, as is the case with marathon runners, can lead to irritation with inflammatory processes of the tendon structure.

The term used here is “Tractus iliotibialis syndrome” (ITBS). Pain and impairment during everyday walking are the result. In addition to distinct pain when walking or running, a distinct, painful swelling appears on the lateral area of the thigh bone protrusion.