Some researchers and anatomists still refer to the hip flexor muscle complex as one unit or as the iliopsoas.
The psoas muscle differs from the iliacus in that it has a different architecture, innervation and more importantly, a different function. The psoas muscle is comprised of both thepsoas major and minor, but as the psoas minor is often
absent in individuals,3 this paper will focus on the psoas major. A better understanding of the role of the psoas
muscle and its impact on lumbopelvic stability may improve the clinical management of individuals suffering
from lower back pain. The objective of this paper is to provide a brief case report followed by an evaluation of the
literature on the psoas major muscle, specifically its anatomy, biomechanics and function, along with management
strategies for psoas major dysfunction. It is hoped that this will enhance the clinician’s understanding of this condition and its diagnosis.