Gluteus Maximus - Functional Anatomy & Physiology

Anatomy

Origin:

• Posterior gluteal line

• Posterior sacrum & coccyx

• Fascia of the lumbar area

• Sacrotuberous ligament
  

Insertion:

• Gluteal tuberosity of the femur

• Iliotibial tract

Major Arteries:

• Superior gluteal artery

• Inferior gluteal artery

Neural Innervation:

• Inferior Gluteal Nerve (L5, S1, S2 nerve roots)

Trigger Points:

Physiology

Concentric Functions:

• Hip extension

• Hip external rotation

• Hip Adduction (lower portion)

Eccentric Functions:

• Decelerates hip flexion, adduction & internal rotation during stance phase

• Decelerates tibial internal rotation via the IlioTibial (IT) band

Isometric Function:

• Assists in stabilizing the sacro iliac joint via the sacrotuberus ligament & the
  lateral knee via the IT band

Related Muscles:

• Gluteus Medius

• Gluteus Minimus

Antagonists:

• Iliopsoas
• Adductor Complex

• More depending on motion

Exercises:

• Legs & Glutes Exercises

More Images of the Gluteus Maximus Muscle

More Information about the Gluteus Maximus Muscle

The gluteus maximus muscle is the largest muscle in the human body.

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