gluteussuperior

The gluteus superior is a muscular structure located in the gluteal region of the human pelvis. It originates from the posterior gluteal line of the ilium and the sacrum and inserts onto the medial surface of the greater trochanter of the femur. The muscle fibers run parallel to the axis of the iliac crest, allowing it to serve as a stabilizer of the pelvis during movements of the lower extremity.

Its primary function is to assist in the abduction and medial rotation of the thigh. When the hip joint is flexed, the gluteus superior elevates the pelvis and helps maintain femoral alignment. Additionally, it contributes to the support of the sacroiliac joint by keeping the pelvis level during weight-bearing activities.

Innervation of the gluteus superior is by the superior gluteal nerve, a branch of the sacral plexus (L4, L5, S1). Blood supply comes from the superior gluteal artery, a branch of the internal iliac artery. In normal physiology, the muscle operates in concert with the gluteus medius and minimus to protect the hip joint against dislocation and to facilitate locomotion.

Clinically, weakness or injury to the gluteus superior can result in gait disturbances such as Trendelenburg sign, where the contralateral pelvis drops during single-limb stance. Rehabilitation often includes exercises that target external hip rotation and abduction, strengthening the gluteal apparatus. Should the muscle become atrophic, it may increase stress on adjacent joints, potentially contributing to lower back or knee pain.

The gluteus superior is an essential component of the gluteal group, playing a fundamental role in stabilizing the pelvis and enabling efficient locomotor mechanics.