Gluteal Region Muscles

List the origins of the gluteus maximus.

• Lateral aspect of iliac wing (behind posterior gluteal line)

• Posterior aspect sacrum and coccyx

• Thoracolumbar fascia

• Posterior sacroiliac and sacrotuberous ligaments

Where does the gluteus maximus insert?

• Lateral edge of linea aspera
• Iliotibial tract
• Third trochanter

What are the actions of the gluteus maximus?

• Lateral rotation of the thigh
• Adduction of the thigh
• Extension of the thigh
• Maintaining upright position (when femur is fixed)

What innervates the gluteus maximus?

Inferior gluteal nerve (L5–S2)

List the origins of the gluteus medius.

• Anterior ¾ of iliac crest (outer edge), posterior gluteal line.

• Anterior superior iliac spine

• External aspect of iliac wing (between anterior & posterior gluteal lines)

• Gluteal fascia

Where does the gluteus medius insert?

Lateral aspect of the greater trochanter

What are the actions of the gluteus medius?

• Abduction of the thigh
• Lateral rotation of the thigh
• Maintaining horizontal position of pelvis (while femur is fixed)

What is the innervation of the gluteus medius?

Superior gluteal nerve (L4–S1).

What is the origin of the gluteus minimus?

Outer aspect of iliac wing (between anterior and inferior gluteal lines)

Where does the gluteus minimus insert?

Anterior margin of the greater trochanter

What are the actions of the gluteus minimus?

• Abduction of the thigh
• Lateral rotation of the thigh

What is the innervation of the gluteus minimus?

Superior gluteal nerve (L4–S1)

What is the origin of the piriformis muscle?

• Pelvic aspect of the sacrum (lateral to anterior sacral foramina)
• Greater sciatic notch
• Sacroischial ligament

Where does the piriformis insert?

Tip of the greater trochanter

What are the actions of the piriformis?

• Abduction of the thigh

• Extension of the thigh

• Lateral rotation of the thigh

What innervates the piriformis muscle?

Branches of sacral plexus (L5, S1, S2)