In assessing a female with hip pain and tenderness in the femoral triangle, which anatomical structure is most likely implicated?

In assessing a female with hip pain and tenderness in the femoral triangle, which anatomical structure is most likely implicated?

• A. Lesser Trochanter
• B. Greater Trochanter
• C. Femoral Head
• D. Ischial Tuberosity

Answer: (A)

The presence of hip pain and tenderness in the femoral triangle suggests involvement of structures located within or near this anatomical region. The femoral triangle is bounded by the inguinal ligament superiorly, the sartorius laterally, and the adductor longus medially. The lesser trochanter is a significant site of attachment for muscles such as the iliopsoas, which is a key hip flexor. Tenderness in this area often indicates that the iliopsoas muscle or related tendons are distressed, especially when evaluated in conjunction with hip joint movements or the presence of hip flexion deficits. In contrast, while the greater trochanter, femoral head, and ischial tuberosity may all relate to hip function and pain, they are not predominantly highlighted by the tender palpation findings within the femoral triangle as the lesser trochanter aligns more directly with this area of pain. Thus, the anatomical structure most likely implicated in this scenario, based on the described symptoms of hip pain and tenderness, is the lesser trochanter.

The presence of hip pain and tenderness in the femoral triangle suggests involvement of structures located within or near this anatomical region. The femoral triangle is bounded by the inguinal ligament superiorly, the sartorius laterally, and the adductor longus medially.

The lesser trochanter is a significant site of attachment for muscles such as the iliopsoas, which is a key hip flexor. Tenderness in this area often indicates that the iliopsoas muscle or related tendons are distressed, especially when evaluated in conjunction with hip joint movements or the presence of hip flexion deficits.

In contrast, while the greater trochanter, femoral head, and ischial tuberosity may all relate to hip function and pain, they are not predominantly highlighted by the tender palpation findings within the femoral triangle as the lesser trochanter aligns more directly with this area of pain. Thus, the anatomical structure most likely implicated in this scenario, based on the described symptoms of hip pain and tenderness, is the lesser trochanter.