Gluteus minimus

The gluteus minimus (Latin: musculus gluteus minimus) is the deepest and smallest of all three gluteal muscles. It lies inferior to the gluteus medius. Together with the tensor fasciae latae, all gluteal muscles are classified as the muscles of the gluteal region. The gluteus minimus extends between the ilium of the hip bone and femur.

Origin

The gluteus minimus muscle originates from the gluteal surface of the ilium between the anterior and inferior gluteal lines.

Insertion

The gluteus minimus inserts on the greater trochanter of the femur.

Action

Primarily the gluteus minimus muscle provides the abduction of the thigh at the hip joint. Contractions of the anterior muscle fibers result in thigh internal rotation. Also, the gluteus minimus stabilizes the pelvis.

Innervation

The gluteus minimus is innervated by the superior gluteal nerve (L4 - S1) that emerges from the sacral plexus.

Blood supply

The gluteus minimus muscle receives arterial blood supply from the superior gluteal artery - a branch of the internal iliac artery.