Abstract
Clinical texts have described methods for palpation of the iliolumbar ligament but have not clearly illustrated the position of the ligament in relation to the surrounding tissues. Examination of the clinical anatomy of the lumbar spine revealed that the iliolumbar ligament is embedded in layers of muscle and fascia and its iliac attachment lies on the deep inner surface of the ilium below the level of the iliac crest. These findings highlight the need for consideration of the anatomy when evaluating the biological rationale underlying a clinical procedure.