Superior gemellus muscle
Musculus gemellus superior
- Synonym: Gemellus superior muscle
- Related terms: Gemellus superior; Superior gemellus
Definition
Superior gemellus muscle (muscle group: Deep gluteal muscles) | |
Origin | Ischial spine |
Insertion | Greater trochanter of femur (common tendon of obturator internus and gemelli) |
Innervation | Nerve to obturator internus (L5, S1 nerve roots) |
Action | Lateral thigh rotator |
The superior gemellus is a small, slender muscle that arises from the ischial spine, joins the obturator internus tendon to insert on the greater trochanter, acting as a lateral rotator and stabilizer of the hip joint within the deep gluteal muscle group.
Origin
The superior gemellus muscle fibres originate from the ischial spine of the ischium.
Insertion
As it travels laterally, its tendon Joins the upper border of the tendon of the obturator internus, and with it, inserts as a common tendon onto the medial surface of the greater trochanter of the femur (above the trochanteric fossa).
Functions
Action | Description |
Lateral rotation | Rotates the femur laterally when the hip is extended. |
Abduction | Assists in abduction of the thigh when the hip is flexed. |
Stabilization | Contributes to holding the head of the femur in the acetabulum, reinforcing hip joint stability. |
Relations
Superiorly: Piriformis.
Inferiorly: Obturator internus tendon.
Deep: Posterior hip joint capsule and ischium.
Superficial: Gluteus maximus.
References
Lezak B, Massel DH. Anatomy, Bony Pelvis and Lower Limb, Gemelli Muscles. [Updated 2023 Aug 21]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557420/
