Gluteal aponeurosis
Aponeurosis glutea
Definition
The gluteal aponeurosis (a.k.a. the gluteal fascia) is a dense fibrous (aponeurotic) membrane that covers the outer surface of the gluteus medius muscle.
Anatomical extent
Superiorly, it is attached to the iliac crest.
Inferiorly, it blends with the fascia lata and the iliotibial tract.
Anteriorly, it continues with the fascia over the tensor fasciae latae.
Posteriorly, it is partly covered by the gluteus maximus.
The gluteal aponeurosis covers the gluteus medius and gives origin to some of its superficial fibres, while also serving as a deep fascial roof separating the gluteus medius from the subcutaneous tissue.
References
Kim, K., Isu, T., Chiba, Y., Iwamoto, N., Morimoto, D. and Isobe, M., 2016. Decompression of the gluteus medius muscle as a new treatment for buttock pain. European Spine Journal, 25(4), pp.1282-1288.
Gray, H. (2016) Gray’s Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 41st edn. Edited by S. Standring. New York: Elsevier. Chapter 80: Pelvic girdle, gluteal region and thigh, pp. 1356-1358.
