Gluteus Maximus
The gluteus maximus is the largest and most superficial of the gluteal muscles. It is the main extensor of the hip and is crucial for standing from sitting, climbing, and running.
Origin, Insertion, Action, Innervation
OOrigin
Posterior gluteal line of ilium, sacrum, coccyx, thoracolumbar fascia, and sacrotuberous ligament.
IInsertion
Iliotibial tract and gluteal tuberosity of femur
AAction
- • Extension of the hip (most powerful hip extensor)
- • Lateral rotation of the hip
- • Abduction of the hip (upper fibers)
- • Adduction of the hip (lower fibers)
- • Stabilization of the hip and knee (via iliotibial tract)
NInnervation
Inferior gluteal nerve (L5, S1, S2)
Blood Supply
Superior and inferior gluteal arteries
Clinical Relevance
Gluteus maximus weakness makes it difficult to rise from sitting or climb stairs. The muscle is tested by having the patient extend the hip against resistance while prone. Gluteal gait (lurching of trunk to affected side) occurs with hip abductor weakness but can also involve gluteus maximus.
Palpation
Easily palpated in the buttock region. Have the patient extend the hip or squeeze the buttocks together to feel the muscle contract.
Study Tips
- ✓Largest muscle in body (by volume) - powerful hip extensor
- ✓Inferior gluteal nerve (not superior!) innervates gluteus maximus
- ✓Inserts into IT band - stabilizes knee via this attachment
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Common questions about the gluteus maximus
Yes, the gluteus maximus is the largest muscle in the human body by volume. It is the main extensor of the hip and is crucial for maintaining upright posture and powerful movements like running and jumping.
The gluteus maximus is innervated by the inferior gluteal nerve, which carries fibers from the L5, S1, and S2 nerve roots. Note that the superior gluteal nerve innervates the gluteus medius and minimus, not the maximus.
The gluteus maximus is the most powerful extensor of the hip. It is essential for rising from sitting, climbing stairs, running, and jumping. It also laterally rotates the hip and helps stabilize the hip and knee.
The gluteus maximus helps maintain upright posture by counteracting the tendency of the trunk to flex forward at the hip. It is especially active when standing from sitting and during activities that require hip extension against resistance.