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Iliopsoas Tendon

tendo musculi iliopsoas

The iliopsoas tendon is the conjoined terminal tendon of the psoas major and iliacus, inserting on the lesser trochanter via the iliopsoas groove over the pubic ramus and hip capsule. Internal snapping hip syndrome (coxa saltans interna) occurs when the taut iliopsoas tendon snaps over the iliopectineal eminence during hip extension from flexion, producing the palpable and often audible snap of the groin.

Region: Pelvis & Hip

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Hip flexion force transmission; the largest tendon crossing the hip joint; snapping hip source when tight

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Iliopsoas tendon release (tenotomy at the lesser trochanter or lengthening at the musculotendinous junction) is performed for internal snapping hip and for iliopsoas impingement on total hip arthroplasty components. Dynamic ultrasound confirms the snapping tendon mechanism. Iliopsoas tendinopathy at the lesser trochanter produces anterior hip and groin pain reproduced by resisted hip flexion from extension.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Coxa Saltans Interna

Iliopsoas tendon snapping over the iliopectineal eminence producing groin snapping and pain managed with eccentric hip flexor loading and tendon release for refractory cases.