Musculus Gluteus Medius is a phrase frequently used in anatomy referring to the middle gluteal muscle. The correct pronunciation of this term is 'mʌskjələs ɡluːtiəs ˈmiːdiəs'. The spelling of 'musculus' includes a combination of hard and soft consonant sounds, while 'gluteus' contains a long vowel sound. The term 'medius' finishes off the pronunciation with a diphthong, a combination of two vowel sounds. For anatomy students and professionals, it is vital to be familiar with proper phonetic transcription for clear communication and medical terminology studies.
The musculus gluteus medius, commonly known as the gluteus medius muscle, is a key muscle located in the buttock region of the human body. It is one of the three major muscles in the gluteal region, along with the gluteus maximus and gluteus minimus muscles.
The gluteus medius muscle is situated on the lateral side of the hip joint and plays a crucial role in the movement and stability of the hip and pelvic region. Its primary function is to abduct the thigh, which means to move it away from the body's midline. Additionally, it helps in the internal and external rotation of the thigh, and assists in stabilizing the pelvis when walking or standing on one leg.
Anatomy-wise, the gluteus medius muscle originates from the outer surface of the ilium, specifically between the posterior and anterior gluteal lines. It then inserts onto the greater trochanter, a bony prominence on the femur (thigh bone). The muscle is innervated by the superior gluteal nerve, which arises from the sacral plexus.
When the gluteus medius muscle becomes weak or dysfunctional, it can lead to various issues such as hip pain, gait abnormalities, and problems with balance and stability. Physical therapy exercises, targeted strengthening, and stretching techniques are often prescribed to improve the function and strength of this muscle and alleviate associated symptoms.
Origin, dorsum ilii between middle and superior curved lines; insertion, outer surface of great trochanter; nerve supply, superior gluteal; action, abducts and rotates thigh.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.