•  In both male and female, gluteus minimus is the smallest of the gluteal muscles and lies antero-inferiorly, deep to gluteus medius.

Origin

•   Gluteus minimus arises from the outer surface of the ilium between the anterior and the inferior gluteal lines.

Insertion

•  It inserts onto the anterosuperior angle of the greater trochanter, from which it may be separated by a bursa.

Nerve supply

•  By a branch from the superior gluteal nerve (L4, 5, and S1).

Action

•  Together with gluteus medius, it abducts and medially rotates the hip joint.

•  Gluteus minimus and medius are fundamental in keeping the trunk in an upright position when the contralateral foot is raised during walking.


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