Greater burdock

Great Trochanter

The Great Trochanter is a prominent bony protrusion located at the proximal (near) end of the femur, the largest bone in the human body. It is an anatomical landmark of significant importance in the field of orthopedics and physical therapy.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The Great Trochanter is situated at the junction of the neck and the shaft of the femur, on the lateral (outer) side of the bone. It is a large, irregular, quadrilateral eminence and a part of the skeletal system. It is palpable in the living subject just below the lateral aspect of the hip joint.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the Great Trochanter is to provide an attachment site for muscles. Several important muscles of the lower limb, including the gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, and piriformis muscles, attach to the Great Trochanter. These muscles are involved in the movement and stabilization of the hip joint.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The Great Trochanter plays a crucial role in various clinical scenarios. It is often the site of fractures in the elderly, especially in those with osteoporosis. It can also be involved in certain inflammatory conditions such as trochanteric bursitis, which can cause hip pain and mobility issues.