Gluteal muscles and hip stabilisers: origins, insertions and actions
The gluteal region contains the powerful hip extensors and abductors that keep the pelvis level in walking. The gluteus maximus extends the hip, the gluteus medius abducts it and the piriformis is the key landmark of the region.
| Muscle | Origin | Insertion | Innervation | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gluteus maximus | Posterior gluteal line of the ilium, dorsal surface of the sacrum and coccyx, and the sacrotuberous ligament. | Gluteal tuberosity of the femur (deep fibres) and the iliotibial tract (superficial fibres). | Inferior gluteal nerve (L5-S2). | Extends and laterally rotates the thigh; upper fibres assist abduction through the iliotibial tract. It is most active in rising from a seated position and climbing stairs. |
| Gluteus medius | Outer surface of the ilium between the anterior and posterior gluteal lines. | Lateral surface of the greater trochanter of the femur. | Superior gluteal nerve (L4-S1). | Abducts the thigh; anterior fibres medially rotate and posterior fibres laterally rotate; stabilises the pelvis during single-leg stance. |
| Tensor fasciae latae | Anterior superior iliac spine and the anterior part of the outer lip of the iliac crest. | Iliotibial tract, which attaches to the lateral tibial condyle (Gerdy's tubercle). | Superior gluteal nerve (L4-L5). | Flexes, abducts and medially rotates the thigh; tenses the iliotibial tract to stabilise the knee and pelvis. |
| Piriformis | Anterior surface of the sacrum (S2-S4) and the margin of the greater sciatic notch. | Superior border of the greater trochanter of the femur. | Nerve to piriformis (L5-S2). | Laterally rotates the extended hip and abducts the flexed hip. |
Frequently asked questions
Which nerve supplies gluteus medius?
The superior gluteal nerve.
What is the main action of gluteus maximus?
Extension and lateral rotation of the hip.
See each muscle in 3D
Last updated September 30, 2026. Educational use only. See our editorial policy.