What is the main function of the psoas major muscle?

The psoas major muscle plays a critical role in hip flexion, which is its primary function. Located in the lower back and running down to the femur, it is a key muscle involved in bringing the thigh towards the body during movements such as walking, running, and climbing. The psoas major assists with stabilizing the pelvis and lumbar spine when the hip is flexed and is crucial for maintaining proper posture and mobility during activities that require bending at the hip.

While other muscles may engage in spinal stabilization, the psoas major's anatomical position and muscle action definitively categorize it as a hip flexor. Consequently, recognizing the specific role of the psoas major in hip flexion is essential in understanding its importance in both athletic performance and injury prevention in sports massage practices.