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The gluteus maximus muscle
Last reviewed: 08.07.2025
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Gluteus maximus muscle - m. gluteus maximus
Extends the thigh at the hip joint, rotating it slightly outward. By contracting the upper part of the gluteus maximus, the thigh is abducted. The lower part of the gluteus maximus, contracting, helps to abduct the bent thigh against a large load. The gluteal muscles contract when the favorable ratios of the body's center of gravity for balance are disturbed (walking and standing on uneven ground, etc.). The function of these muscles is especially significant when climbing a mountain, running, climbing stairs, moving from a sitting to a standing position, jumping, etc. When walking straight on a flat surface, as well as when standing quietly, both gluteal muscles are relaxed. Thus, without the participation of the gluteus maximus, it is impossible to run or walk on an inclined plane, it is impossible to rise from a chair without the help of your hands. As in all places of greatest friction, between the gluteus maximus and the greater trochanter there is a large mucous bursa.
Origin: ilium (area behind Linea glutaea posterior). sacrum, coccyx, Lig. sacrotuberal
Attachment: fascia latae, Tuberositas glutaea femoris
Innervation: spinal nerves L5-S2 - sacral plexus - n gluteus inferior
Diagnostics: Trigger zones are most often localized: at the site of muscle attachment to the sacrum, above the ischial tuberosity (the most common site of injury), in the most medial and inferior fibers of the muscle, attached mainly to the coccyx. Trigger zones in this muscle are accessible for palpation, local spasmodic responses are often clearly visible. The patient lies on his side with the muscle being examined upward, the hip is slightly bent. Trigger zones of the first two (localizations) are examined by planar palpation, for which the thumb is moved across the fibers. The search and examination of the last trigger zones is carried out by pincer palpation: muscle fibers are compressed between the thumb and the other fingers.
Referred pain is usually localized in the gluteal region. Pain from trigger zones located at the site of attachment to the sacrum is localized near the intergluteal cleft, involving the sacroiliac joint area. Referred pain from trigger zones located above the ischial tuberosity is localized throughout the gluteal muscle, extending deep into the gluteal region, simulating damage to the deep gluteal muscles. This pain never involves the anal region and coccyx. Trigger zones in the medial and lower fibers of the muscle are often the cause of coccygodynia, which can also be caused by the presence of trigger zones in the coccygeal muscle.
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