gluteals

The gluteals, or gluteal muscles, are a group of three large muscles located in the buttock region: gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus. They originate from the pelvis and sacrum and insert on the proximal femur, with the maximus also attaching to the iliotibial tract. Together they act on the hip joint and contribute to pelvic stability.

Gluteus maximus is the strongest hip extensor and an external rotator. It plays a major role in rising from a seated position, climbing stairs, and powerful movements such as sprinting. The gluteus medius and gluteus minimus are the primary abductors of the hip and, with the minimus, help medially rotate the thigh. They are essential for stabilizing the pelvis during single-leg stance, which helps maintain level hips during walking.

Innervation and blood supply: the gluteus maximus receives innervation from the inferior gluteal nerve, while the gluteus medius and minimus are innervated by the superior gluteal nerve. Blood supply comes from the superior and inferior gluteal arteries, branches of the internal iliac artery.

Clinical relevance: weakness or injury of the gluteals can impair gait and posture, with gluteus medius/minimus weakness commonly associated with a Trendelenburg sign. Tendinopathy or tearing can occur with overuse or athletic activity. Injections into the gluteal region are typically performed in the upper outer quadrant to minimize risk to nerves and vessels and to avoid the sciatic nerve. The gluteal region is also important in surgical approaches and in understanding hip mechanics and locomotion.