How weakness of the tensor fascia lata and gluteus maximus may contribute to ACL injury: A new theory

ABSTRACT

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common in sports including a significant failure rate following reconstruction. The iliotibial band (ITB) is an important stabilizer of the lateral portion of the knee and also an important lateral rotator of the tibia. Both the tensor fascia lata (TFL) and gluteus maximus (Gmax) muscles insert into the ITB proximally. This paper describes a theory that implicates weakened TFL and Gmax muscles as possible contributors to anterolateral rotatory instability. If the TFL and Gmax are important contributors to anterolateral rotatory instability, physical therapists can emphasize assessing for their weakness and developing a rehabilitation program to restore their strength.

KEYWORDS:

• Hip
• ACL injury
• knee
• sports injury
• Gerdy’s tubercle
• ITB

Declaration of interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Maryville Physical Therapy Program allowing us to spend time on this project, whatever is appropriate for this sort of activity.