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The psoas majorFlexor Runs from lower spine to femur; lifts your thigh or bends your trunk. muscle is a major hip flexor.
Photography, text, and labels by Rob Swatski, Assistant Professor of Biology, Harrisburg Area Community College – York Campus, York, PA.
Psoas Origin
The psoas major muscle has two primary origins. It originates from the bodies and intervertebral discs of the lumbar vertebraeLargest and thickest vertebrae; short, blunt spinous processes for weight-bearing stability., specifically T12 to L5. It also comes from the transverse processes of the lumbar vertebrae. Additionally, it arises from the lateralAway from the midline of the body. aspects of the intervertebral discs. It also originates from the adjacent vertebral bodies and the transverse processes of the lumbar vertebrae.
Psoas Insertion
The psoas major muscle inserts on the lesser trochanterSmaller medial projection below the head; muscle attachment site. of the femurThigh bone; longest and strongest bone in the body; has a large round head and prominent trochanters. The muscle fibers extend downward and laterally. They converge into a tendon that inserts onto the posterior surface of the lesser trochanter of the femur. This insertion point allows the psoas major to play a crucial role in hip flexion and stability.
Psoas Actions
Hip Flexion
Lumbar Spine Stabilization
Lateral Flexion of the Spine
Interactive Materials
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Identify More Muscles
Link to more Muscle Identification
Upper Arm Muscles
Forearm Muscles
Calf Muscles
Anterior Thigh Muscles
Posterior Thigh Muscles
Knee Structures
Chest Muscles
Back Muscles
Abdominal Muscles
Neck Muscles
Head Muscles
List of terms
- psoas major
- anatomy
- lumbar vertebrae
- lateral
- lesser trochanter
- femur