Ligaments function to limit joint motion

For example, the iliofemoral ligament covers the anterior surface of the hip joint.

Hip extension (the hip movement produced by a posterior pelvic tilt) elongates the iliofemoral ligament, causing it to develop force, much like a very stiff rubber band. The vectors depict the ligament's passive force, whose direction resists further hip extension.


Last updated 9-25-00 ©Dave Thompson PT
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