Integrative Works

These people complain of pain along the side of the thigh, often down to the knee. Reflexively, I’ll ask if it extends down to the ankle. Usually, they say it does. Then, I ask if it refers to the behind the ankle or in front. When they say that it goes in front of the ankle, often to the big toe, it indicates this pattern.

If they say that the pain extends behind the ankle, it is more likely to be this other pattern.

This trigger point is in the tensor fascia lata, which may also create tingling in the thigh or pain on the side of the knee.

Often, they were misdiagnosed with trochanteric bursitis, sciatica, or degenerative discs.

Sports

Commonly, sports aggravate this trigger point. Skiing, cycling, jumping, running on the beach, and other activities that involve slight flexion with side-to-side movement can activate this trigger point.

Prolonged Sitting

Additionally, sitting for long periods while leaning forward or with legs crossed can stiffen this muscle when it has latent trigger points. Naturally, this may lead to stiffness on rising. Frequently, this occurs when the person sits at a counter or table with their legs spread because of inadequate legroom. Conversely, this tightness can make it challenging to keep the knees together while sitting.

Further, sleeping in a fetal position or with the legs awkwardly flexed can increase trigger point activity in this muscle.

Musculoskeletal Anatomy

About these Illustrations…

This post on anatomy contains standard information about the origin, insertion, function, and innervation of muscles. It also includes information on functional considerations and anomalies.

Find Related Posts

Anatomy posts have a grid of all related posts. This includes posts on pain patterns, self-care, therapy notes, NMT protocols, cranial techniques, and cases.

Clinically Proven
Self-Care Strategies

Self-Care Posts have common sections to make them easy to follow and understand:

• Activities to Avoid or Change
• Strategies for Quick Relief
• Stretches and Exercise for Longer-Lasting Relief
• Yoga Corner

Better Bodywork
Through Shared Expertise

Therapy Notes provide details for cranial, spinal, and local joint work. These notes also link to a traditional neuromuscular protocol.

By treating integrative components first, direct work on the muscle becomes less intense while providing longer-lasting relief.