Psoas
Psoas
Psoas (/ˈsoʊ.æs/), also known as the psoas major or lumbar psoas, is a long fusiform muscle located in the lateral lumbar region between the vertebral column and the brim of the lesser pelvis. It joins the iliacus muscle to form the iliopsoas which is responsible for flexing the hip joint.
Etymology
The term "psoas" originates from the Greek word "psoa", meaning "loin".
Anatomy
The psoas major is divided into a superficial and a deep part. The deep part attaches to the sides of the bodies of the twelfth thoracic and all lumbar vertebrae and intervertebral discs. The superficial part attaches to the transverse processes of all lumbar vertebrae. Both parts unite and form a single muscle belly distally.
The psoas major unites with the iliacus muscle at the level of the inguinal ligament to form the iliopsoas which is inserted into the lesser trochanter of the femur. This common insertion point is the psoas tendon.
Function
The psoas major and the iliacus muscle are powerful hip flexors. They are also important for maintaining proper posture.
Related Terms
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Psoas
- Wikipedia's article - Psoas
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