External obturator muscle

External obturator muscle

The External obturator muscle or obturator externus is a thin, flat muscle of the human body located in the pelvis. It is part of the medial compartment of thigh and plays a crucial role in the movement of the hip joint.

Etymology

The term "obturator" comes from the Latin "obturare", which means to close or obstruct. This is in reference to the muscle's function in closing off the obturator foramen, a large opening in the hip bone.

Anatomy

The external obturator muscle originates from the margins of the obturator foramen and converges to a tendon, which inserts into the trochanter of the femur. It is innervated by the obturator nerve and is supplied by the obturator artery.

Function

The primary function of the external obturator muscle is to laterally rotate the thigh at the hip joint. It also helps to stabilize the hip joint by pulling the head of the femur into the acetabulum, the socket of the hip bone.

Clinical significance

Injury or strain to the external obturator muscle can result in hip pain and limited mobility. It may also be involved in conditions such as hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis.

Related terms

• Obturator internus muscle
• Obturator nerve
• Obturator artery
• Obturator foramen
• Hip joint
• Femur
• Trochanter
• Acetabulum

See also

• List of muscles of the human body
• Hip muscles
• Thigh muscles

External obturator muscle Resources
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