MuscleGluteal region
Gluteus medius
Latin: M. gluteus medius sinistra
Location: Gluteal
Paired structure: one on the left and one on the right side of the body.
View the gluteus medius in 3DOrigin
Ilium between the anterior and posterior gluteal lines.
Insertion
Greater trochanter of the femur (lateral surface).
Action
Abducts the hip; its anterior fibres medially rotate. Crucially, during single-leg stance it holds the pelvis level — the anti-Trendelenburg muscle of gait.
Nerve supply
Superior gluteal nerve (L4–S1).
Blood supply
Superior gluteal artery.
Clinical relevance
Superior gluteal nerve palsy or hip pathology drops the opposite pelvis — a positive Trendelenburg sign — producing a lurching 'waddling' gait. Trochanteric bursitis sits over its insertion.
Educational anatomy reference, not medical advice. About this content.