Superficial gluteal muscles

The superficial gluteal muscles include the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, gluteus minimus and tensor fasciae latae. These muscles are primarily involved in the movement and stabilization of the hip joint.

1. Gluteus Maximus: This is the largest and most superficial of the gluteal muscles. It originates from the posterior aspect of the ilium, sacrum, and coccyx, and inserts into the iliotibial tract and the gluteal tuberosity of the femur. It is primarily responsible for the extension and external rotation of the hip.

2. Gluteus Medius: Located beneath the gluteus maximus, this muscle originates from the outer surface of the ilium and inserts into the lateral aspect of the greater trochanter of the femur. It functions mainly in the abduction and medial rotation of the hip, and plays a crucial role in stabilizing the pelvis during walking.

3. Gluteus Minimus: The smallest and deepest of the superficial gluteal muscles, it originates from the outer surface of the ilium and inserts into the anterior aspect of the greater trochanter. It assists in the abduction and medial rotation of the hip, similar to the gluteus medius.

4. Tensor fasciae latae: this muscle is included by some sources in the superficial gluteal muscles (TA2). It arises from the anterior part of the outer lip of the iliac crest; from the outer surface of the anterior superior iliac spine, and part of the outer border of the notch below it, between the Glutaeus medius and Sartorius; and from the deep surface of the fascia lata. It is inserted between the two layers of the iliotibial band of the fascia lata about the junction of the middle and upper thirds of the thigh.