Obturator muscles

Obturator Muscles

The Obturator muscles, as illustrated in Gray's Anatomy.

The Obturator muscles are a group of muscles found in the pelvic region. They are named for their location near the obturator foramen, a large opening in the pelvic bone where nerves and vessels pass through. The group consists of the Obturator internus and the Obturator externus.

Structure

Obturator Internus

The Obturator internus originates from the margin of bone around the medial side of the obturator foramen. It exits the pelvis through the lesser sciatic foramen to insert on the greater trochanter of the femur.

Obturator Externus

The Obturator externus is a flat, triangular muscle, which covers the outer surface of the anterior wall of the pelvis. It is located near the lower part of the hip bone, and its fibers converge to pass through the obturator foramen.

Function

The obturator muscles play a crucial role in the movement of the hip joint. The obturator internus acts to laterally rotate the hip and assists in abduction of the hip. The obturator externus acts to laterally rotate the hip and assists in adduction of the hip.

Clinical significance

Dysfunction or injury to the obturator muscles can lead to pain and limited mobility. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, overuse, or neurological conditions.

See also

• Hip muscles
• Pelvic floor
• Obturator nerve