Origin/Insertion of Muscles - Abductor Muscles (Gluteus Maximus, Gluteus Medius)

The hip abductor muscles are a group of 4 muscles, Gluteus Maximus, Gluteus Medius, Gluteus Minimus and Tensor Fascia Latae, that are located in the butt. Their main function is to abduct (or separate the legs) away from the midline of the body. It occurs in any athletic movement requiring side-to-side movement.

Gluteus Maximus
Origin: Surface of Ilium posterior to posterior gluteal line and posterior inferior surface of sacrum and coccyx
Insertion: Gluteal tuberosity of femur; anterior aspect of lateral tibial condyle via the Iliotibial tract (band)
Action: Extends, laterally rotates thigh at hip; upper fibres help to abduct the thigh (the inferior fibres also stabilise the extended knee by tightening the Iliotibial tract)


Gluteus Maximus
 



Gluteus Maximus Origin



Gluteal Tuberosity

Gluteus Medius
Origin: Outer surface of Ilium, between the posterior and anterior gluteal lines
Insertion: Lateral and superior surfaces of the greater trochanter of femur
Action: Abducts thigh at hip; anterior fibres medially rotate thigh and posterior fibres laterally rotate thigh at hip

Gluteus Medius

Gluteal Lines

Greater Trochanter