Overview
This lecture reviews the anatomy, functions, and clinical significance of the gluteal muscles (gluteus maximus, medius, and minimus), highlighting key differences for physiotherapy.
Gluteus Maximus
- Largest and most superficial gluteal muscle; key hip extensor.
- Originates mainly from the gluteal surface of the ilium, lateral sacrum, coccyx, and thoracolumbar fascia.
- Inserts into the gluteal tuberosity of the femur and iliotibial band (ITB).
- Functions in powerful hip extension (e.g., squatting, jumping, sprinting).
- Rehab should focus on high-force, power-based exercises to match its function.
Gluteus Medius
- Originates high on the gluteal surface of the ilium.
- Inserts on the lateral-posterior surface of the greater trochanter of the femur.
- Provides hip stabilization during activities like standing on one leg and walking.
- Important for maintaining pelvic stability during single-leg activities.
- Rehab emphasizes endurance and stability-focused exercises (e.g., single-leg stands).
Gluteus Minimus
- Sits directly beneath gluteus medius; originates lower on the gluteal surface of the ilium.
- Inserts slightly more anteriorly on the greater trochanter.
- Shares a stabilizing role with gluteus medius.
- Dysfunction or tendinopathy often presents as lateral hip pain over the greater trochanter.
- Rehab similar to medius: low-intensity, high-endurance, stability exercises.
Clinical Relevance
- Lateral hip pain may indicate gluteal tendinopathy involving medius or minimus tendons.
- Gluteus maximus and gluteus medius/minimus require different rehab approaches: power vs. stability/endurance.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Gluteus Maximus — Main hip extensor and largest gluteal muscle; critical for powerful movements.
- Gluteus Medius — Lateral hip muscle, important for pelvic stabilization.
- Gluteus Minimus — Deepest gluteal muscle, assists in hip stabilization.
- Iliotibial Band (ITB) — Thick fascia on the lateral thigh, not a muscle.
- Greater Trochanter — Prominent bony part of the femur where gluteus medius and minimus insert.
- Tendinopathy — Disease or dysfunction of a tendon, often causing pain and impaired function.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the anatomical attachments and functions of each gluteal muscle.
- Prepare examples of rehab exercises focused on power (gluteus maximus) and stability/endurance (medius/minimus).
- Observe or assess patients with lateral hip pain for possible gluteal tendinopathy.