Gluteus muscle

Gluteus Muscle

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The gluteus maximus, one of the three gluteal muscles.

The Gluteus Muscle is a group of three muscles which make up the buttocks: the Gluteus Maximus, Gluteus Medius, and Gluteus Minimus. These muscles originate from the Ilium and Sacrum and insert on the Femur. The Gluteus Muscles are responsible for movement of the hip and thigh, standing up from a sitting position, climbing stairs, and maintaining balance while standing.

Gluteus Maximus

The Gluteus Maximus is the largest of the three gluteal muscles and forms the bulk of the buttock. It extends and laterally rotates the hip, and assists with extension of the trunk.

Gluteus Medius

The Gluteus Medius is located superior to the Gluteus Maximus and is responsible for medially rotating and abducting the hip.

Gluteus Minimus

The Gluteus Minimus is the smallest of the three muscles and is located beneath the Gluteus Medius. It performs similar functions to the Gluteus Medius.

Clinical Significance

Damage or injury to the Gluteus Muscles can result in a variety of conditions, including Piriformis Syndrome, Trendelenburg's Sign, and Gluteal Muscle Strain.

See Also

• Hip Muscles
• Lower Limb Anatomy
• Muscular System