The lesser trochanter is a small, conical projection on the posterior and medial side of the proximal femur. It serves as the primary attachment point for the iliopsoas muscle, which is crucial for hip flexion and stabilization. This strategic placement of the lesser trochanter provides optimal leverage for the iliopsoas muscle to flex the thigh at the hip joint and assist in maintaining upright posture.
Like its larger counterpart, the term "trochanter" comes from the Greek word "trokhos" meaning wheel or pulley, describing its role in movement. The word "lesser" was added to distinguish it from the larger greater trochanter, as it is smaller in size but still mechanically significant.
Image
