What is the function of the Gluteus medius (GM)?

admin — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 06:31:10 +0000

Numerous Research on the function of the Gluteus medius has shown common results. The function of the GM is a controversial subject.
The GM is divided into 3 areas. Anterior, medius and posterior. Anterior and medius fibres run at a more vertical angle and posteriors fibres run more at a horizontal angle. The main function of the GM is that it is a hip stabilizer and abductor. However, the anterior fibres (attached more anteriorly on the greater trochanter) do play a role in medial rotation and hip flexion and the posterior fibres (attached more laterally on the femur) play a role in hip extension & lateral rotation. Numerous EMG (electromygraph) tests have been done to see when is one able to isolate in certain fibres and it has become evident that the GM works in synergy. This is where all the fibres will be working simultaneously however some fibres may fire more than others in certain movements. If you have any further information, please comment below!

The GM also directly affects the Iliotibial band (ITB) whereby one of the functions of the itb is to maintain the knee in its neutral position by having an abduction component (coming from the TFL). However, if the GM is weak then the ITB is required to hold the knee neutral solely. This places tension on the ITB as it is overworked and can therefore cause ITB syndrome.

If you have any further information, please comment below!