The anatomy of gluteus medius is similar to several other muscles like infraspinatus, and masseter. Likewise, it has three bellies and a tough fascial covering.
The gluteus medius is a fan-shaped muscle on the lateral hip that overlays the gluteus minimus. The posterior portion lies under the gluteus maximus. Commonly, it has three sections that converge into a single insertion tendon.
It originates from the exterior surface of the ilium between the posterior gluteal line (by the crest) and anterior gluteal lines. The anterior two-thirds are covered and anchored by the gluteal aponeurosis of the fascia lata.
It forms a flat tendonous insertion on the superolateral aspect greater trochanter. This attachment is posterior to the tendon(s) of the gluteus minimus. The tendon of the posterior gluteus medius passes under the tendon of the anterior section as they attach to the greater trochanter. Especially on wider, usually female, pelvic structures, the insertion of the two sections pulls on the trochanter at nearly right angles from each other.
Its attachments are better positioned to abduct the hip joint than the gluteus minimus. Still, it is very involved in medial rotation when the hip is flexed. This abduction shifts the pelvis laterally when the foot is fixed.
It works with the TFL muscle and the contralateral quadratus lumborum in suspending the opposite hip while the ipsilateral hip is weight-bearing and the contralateral leg swings.
More commonly, reported anomalies include two distinct sections, fusing with the piriformis and fusing with the gluteus minimus.
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Tony Preston has a practice in Atlanta, Georgia, where he sees clients. He has written materials and instructed classes since the mid-90s. This includes anatomy, trigger points, cranial, and neuromuscular.
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