Gluteus minimus
Musculus gluteus minimus
Also known as: GMin
The smallest and deepest of the three gluteal muscles. It lies beneath gluteus medius and acts with it to abduct and medially rotate the thigh and to stabilise the pelvis.
Overview
Gluteus minimus is fan-shaped and arises from the outer surface of the ilium between the anterior and inferior gluteal lines. It inserts on the anterior surface of the greater trochanter and, through deep fibres, on the hip joint capsule. It shares the actions and nerve supply of gluteus medius: abduction and medial rotation of the thigh, and pelvic stabilisation during gait. Its capsular fibres may help keep the femoral head seated in the acetabulum and stop the capsule being pinched. It is supplied by the superior gluteal nerve.
Anatomy
- Origin
External surface of the ilium between the anterior and inferior gluteal lines.
- Insertion
Anterior surface of the greater trochanter of the femur.
- Action
Abduction and medial rotation of the thigh; pelvic stabilisation in single-leg stance.
- Innervation
Superior gluteal nerve.
- Nerve roots
L4–S1
- Arterial supply
Superior gluteal artery (deep branch).
- Relations
Deep to gluteus medius. Lies on the ilium and the capsule of the hip joint, with the reflected head of rectus femoris below it.
Function
- Abducts and medially rotates the thigh
- Stabilises the pelvis and the femoral head
Compiled from standard anatomy and physiology references — see the Muscular System sources. For education only; not medical advice.