Gluteus Maximus Flashcards

Study the gluteus maximus muscle, including its attachments, fiber arrangement, nerve supply, hip movements, and clinical anatomy.

Card 1 of 30Question

Where is the gluteus maximus muscle located?

In the superficial layer of the gluteal region, forming most of the buttock's muscular bulk.

In This Section

1. Where is the gluteus maximus muscle located?

In the superficial layer of the gluteal region, forming most of the buttock's muscular bulk.

2. What is the gluteus maximus classified as anatomically?

A large, superficial intrinsic muscle of the gluteal region.

3. What is the general shape of the gluteus maximus?

A thick, broad, quadrilateral muscle.

4. Which part of the ilium provides an origin for the gluteus maximus?

The posterior gluteal surface of the ilium, behind the posterior gluteal line.

5. Which midline skeletal structures provide additional origins for the gluteus maximus?

The dorsal surfaces of the sacrum and coccyx.

6. Which ligament contributes to the origin of the gluteus maximus?

The sacrotuberous ligament.

7. Which fascial structure contributes to the proximal attachment of the gluteus maximus?

The thoracolumbar fascia and associated gluteal aponeurosis.

8. Where do the superficial and upper fibers of the gluteus maximus primarily insert?

Into the iliotibial tract of the fascia lata.

9. Where do the deeper and lower fibers of the gluteus maximus insert?

Into the gluteal tuberosity on the posterior femur.

10. In which general direction do gluteus maximus muscle fibers run?

Inferolaterally from the posterior pelvis toward the femur and iliotibial tract.

11. Which nerve provides motor innervation to the gluteus maximus?

The inferior gluteal nerve.

12. Which spinal nerve roots contribute to the inferior gluteal nerve?

L5, S1, and S2.

13. From which part of the sacral plexus does the inferior gluteal nerve arise?

The posterior divisions of the ventral rami of L5, S1, and S2.

14. Through which opening does the inferior gluteal nerve enter the gluteal region?

The greater sciatic foramen, inferior to the piriformis muscle.

15. Which arteries primarily supply the gluteus maximus?

The superior and inferior gluteal arteries, particularly the inferior gluteal artery.

16. Which major artery gives rise to the inferior gluteal artery?

The internal iliac artery, usually through its anterior division.

17. Which veins drain the gluteus maximus?

The superior and inferior gluteal veins, which drain into the internal iliac venous system.

18. What is the primary action of the gluteus maximus at the hip joint?

Powerful extension of the thigh at the hip.

19. Which rotational movement of the thigh is produced by the gluteus maximus?

Lateral rotation of the thigh at the hip.

20. How do the upper fibers of the gluteus maximus influence hip abduction?

They assist abduction of the thigh.

21. What additional movement can the lower fibers of the gluteus maximus assist?

Adduction of the thigh.

22. During which everyday activities is the gluteus maximus especially active?

Rising from sitting, climbing stairs, running, and ascending slopes.

23. How does the gluteus maximus help stabilize the knee?

By transmitting tension through the iliotibial tract to the lateral aspect of the proximal tibia.

24. Which major peripheral nerve passes deep to the gluteus maximus?

The sciatic nerve.

25. Which hip abductor muscle lies deep to the superolateral portion of the gluteus maximus?

The gluteus medius.

26. Which bursa reduces friction between the gluteus maximus and the greater trochanter?

The trochanteric bursa associated with the gluteus maximus.

27. Which bursa separates the gluteus maximus from the ischial tuberosity?

The ischial bursa.

28. What functional deficit results from inferior gluteal nerve injury?

Weakness of powerful hip extension, particularly when rising from sitting or climbing stairs.

29. What compensatory gait pattern may occur with significant gluteus maximus weakness?

A backward trunk lean at heel strike to reduce the hip flexion moment.

30. Which gluteal region is generally preferred for intramuscular injections to reduce the risk of sciatic nerve injury?

The superolateral gluteal region, although the ventrogluteal site is generally preferred clinically.