Gluteus Medius Muscle
Origin: Outer surface of the ilium, between the anterior and inferior gluteal lines, and the edge of the greater sciatic notch
Insertion: Posterolateral surface of the greater trochanter of the femur
Actions: Abduction and internal rotation of the thigh at the hip
Innervation: Superior gluteal nerve (L4, L5, S1)
Blood Supply: Superior gluteal artery from the internal iliac artery
To learn about the pain and symptoms visit The Gluteus Medius Pain Page.
Primary Actions of the Gluteus Medius Muscle
1. Abduction of the thigh at the hip
Agonists:
- Gluteus maximus (upper fibers)
- Gluteus minimus
Antagonists:
- Gluteus maximus (upper fibers)
- Gluteus medius
- Gluteus minimus
2. Internal rotation of the thigh at the hip
Agonists:
- Tensor fasciae latae
- Gluteus minimus (anterior fibers)
Antagonists:
- Obturator internus,
- Obturator externus
- Gemellus superior
- Gemellus inferior
- Quadratus femoris
Adductor longus, adductor brevis, and adductor magnus (anterior part) assist with internal rotation of the thigh at the hip.
Secondary Actions of the Gluteus Medius:
1. Assists with external rotation of the thigh at the hip (posterior fibers)
Agonists:
- Obturator internus
- Obturator externus
- Gemellus superior
- Gemellus inferior
- Quadratus femoris
Antagonists:
- Tensor fasciae latae
- Gluteus minimus (anterior fibers)
- Gluteus medius (anterior fibers)
Piriformis, gluteus maximus, and sartorius may also assist with external rotation of the thigh at the hip.
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Muscle Pain Information: The gluteus medius muscle contributes to pain in the lower back, buttock, hip, and outer thigh.
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For beginning and intermediary anatomy . Muscle overlays on the human body. Excellent visuals!