Iliofemoral ligament

A key ligament that stabilizes the hip joint and plays a pivotal role in maintaining posture and movement.

This is a Y-shaped ligament located in the hip joint. It extends from the ilium, the uppermost part of the hip bone, to the femur, the thigh bone. It is one of the strongest ligaments in the body, providing essential stability to the hip joint and limiting excessive motion that could lead to injury.

Terminologia Anatomica

ligamentum iliofemorale

System

Musculoskeletal system

Function

The primary function of the iliofemoral ligament is to maintain stability in the hip joint during various activities, such as walking, running, and jumping. It prevents hyperextension of the hip, which occurs when the joint is pushed too far backward. This ligament also assists in maintaining an upright posture by allowing the body to be supported through the pelvis under the weight of the upper body. When the hip joint is brought to its limits during movement, the iliofemoral ligament acts to restrict further motion—this is crucial to protect the surrounding muscles and structures from strain. Additionally, by connecting the hip bone to the thigh bone, it plays a vital role in the overall biomechanics of the lower extremities, facilitating smooth and efficient movement.

Location

The iliofemoral ligament is situated at the anterior aspect of the hip joint. It originates from the anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS) of the ilium and extends downward and laterally to insert on the intertrochanteric line of the femur. This ligament effectively spans the front of the hip joint and is positioned to limit extension when the hip is in a standing position. Its strategic location contributes significantly to the overall stability and integrity of the hip joint, accommodating its role in various weight-bearing activities.

Did You Know?

The iliofemoral ligament is considered one of the strongest ligaments in the human body.
It is also referred to as the 'Y ligament' due to its distinctive Y shape.
In addition to providing stability, this ligament is often involved in proprioception, which helps the body sense joint position.
While it plays a crucial role in movement, the iliofemoral ligament can also be a common source of pain in athletes due to its involvement in dynamic activities.