Iliacus

Definition

The iliacus is a flat, triangular muscle that lies deep within the pelvis, attaching from the iliac fossa (the interior concavity of the ilium) to the femur. It works in conjunction with the psoas major muscle to flex and externally rotate the thigh at the hip joint.

Related terms

Psoas Major:

A long spindle-shaped muscle that connects the lumbar vertebrae to the femur and works with the iliacus to flex and rotate the hip.

Hip Flexion: The movement of bringing one's thigh or knee towards the torso, primarily facilitated by muscles including the iliacus.

Femur:

The longest and strongest bone in the human body that extends from the hip to the knee; it serves as an attachment point for various muscles, including the iliacus