Gluteus Maximus Muscle

Authors
Affiliations

Nathaniel Yomogida, B.S., SPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

B.S. in Kinesiology

Chloë Kerstein, B.S., SPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

B.A. in Neuroscience

Overview

The gluteus maxijmus is a primary extensor and external rotator of the hip1. The gluteus maximus is a secondary hip abductor1 The gluteus maximus also plays an important role in stabilization of the SIJ and lumbar spine via its ligamentous and fascial originations1

Origin

  • Sacrum (dorsal surface, lateral part)2
  • Ilium (gluteal surface, posterior part)2
  • Thoracolumbar fascia2
  • Sacrotuberous lig.2

Insertion

  • Upper fibers: iliotibial tract2
  • Lower fibers: gluteal tuberosity2

Innervation

The gluteus maximus muscle is innervated by nerve roots L5, S1, S2 via the Inferior gluteal nerve2

Action

  • Entire muscle: extends and externally rotates the hip in sagittal and coronal planes2
  • Upper fibers: Hip abduction2
  • Lower fibers: Hip adduction2

At ≥60° hip flexion, the upper fibers of the gluteus maximus switch and produce an internal rotation torque1.

Biomechanics

The moment arm of the gluteus maximus decreases as the hip moves into flexion1. The more hip flexion decreases the moment arm of the gluteus maximus and therefore results in less torque1.

Length test

Manual Muscle Test

Exercises

  • Single leg bridge (with 90° knee flexion and pushing through the hindfoot)
  • Wall triple extension

References

1.
Neumann DA, Kelly ER, Kiefer CL, Martens K, Grosz CM. Kinesiology of the Musculoskeletal System: Foundations for Rehabilitation. 3rd ed. Elsevier; 2017.
2.
Gilroy AM, MacPherson BR, Wikenheiser JC, Voll MM, Wesker K, Schünke M, eds. Atlas of Anatomy. 4th ed. Thieme; 2020.

Citation

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