Gluteus Minimus Muscle
Origin: Outer surface of the ilium, between the anterior and inferior gluteal lines, and the edge of the greater sciatic notch
Insertion: Anterior surface of the greater trochanter of the femur
Actions: Abduction of the thigh, internal rotation of the thigh
Innervation: Superior gluteal nerve (L4, L5, S1)
Blood Supply: Superior gluteal artery from the internal iliac artery
Primary Actions of the Gluteus Minimus Muscle
1. Abduction of the thigh at the hip
Agonists:
- Gluteus maximus (upper fibers)
- Gluteus medius
Antagonists:
- Adductor longus
- Adductor brevis
- Adductor magnus (anterior part)
Tensor fasciae latae and sartorius assist with abduction of the thigh at the hip.
2. Internal rotation of the thigh at the hip
Agonists:
- Tensor fasciae latae
- Gluteus medius (anterior fibers)
Antagonists:
- Obturator internus,
- Obturator externus
- Gemellus superior
- Gemellus inferior
- Quadratus femoris
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Muscle Pain Information: The gluteus minimus muscle contributes to pain in the buttock, thigh, and lower leg.
An excellent book for those beginning the study of anatomy. Coloring helps memory retention.
For intermediary anatomy students learning skeletal and muscle structure.
For beginning and intermediary anatomy . Muscle overlays on the human body. Excellent visuals!