Lower limb

Psoas Minor

Musculus psoas minor

Origin

Bodies of T12 and L1

Insertion

Iliopubic eminence and the arcuate line of the pelvis (via a long flat tendon)

Function

Slight flexion of the lumbar spine and tensioning of the iliac fascia; no relevant action on the hip

Innervation

Direct ventral rami of L1 (lumbar plexus)

Movement & chain

Weak synergist in lumbar trunk flexion; assists in tensing the iliac fascia during hip movements.

Palpation

Lies on the anterior surface of psoas major in the retroperitoneum; not palpable through abdominal viscera.

Clinical

Inconstant muscle (absent in 40–50% of individuals); tenses the iliac fascia and assists weak lumbar flexion.

Segmental innervation

L1.

In clinical practice

Skin and pressure point inspection; maintain comfortable positioning and proper body mechanics during patient handling and daily care.

Region in the model

Lower limb