Musculus gluteus minimus is a muscle located in the gluteal region of the human body. Its spelling can be initially challenging to understand due to its Latin origin. The word "musculus" means muscle in Latin; "gluteus" refers to the buttocks, and "minimus" means smallest in size. The correct pronunciation of the word is /ˈmʌskjʊləs ˈɡluːtiəs ˈmɪnɪməs/. The IPA phonetic transcription helps to understand the correct pronunciation of each letter in the word. The proper spelling of the word is vital in biological research and medical studies.
The musculus gluteus minimus, commonly referred to as the gluteus minimus, is a small but significant muscle located in the gluteal region of the body. It forms part of the gluteal muscle group, which consists of the gluteus maximus and gluteus medius muscles. This muscle is situated deep beneath the larger gluteus medius muscle and is one of the smaller muscles in the gluteal area.
The gluteus minimus originates from the ilium bone, specifically from the outer surface between the anterior and inferior gluteal lines. It then inserts into the greater trochanter of the femur, forming a muscular connection between the pelvis and the thigh bone. This intricate anatomical arrangement allows for the movement and stabilization of the hip joint.
Functionally, the gluteus minimus plays an integral role in abduction, or moving the leg outward away from the midline of the body. Additionally, it helps to medially rotate and stabilize the hip joint during movements such as walking, running, and climbing stairs. It also assists in controlling tilting movements of the pelvis.
In summary, the musculus gluteus minimus is a small, deep muscle located in the gluteal region of the body. Its main functions involve abduction, rotation, and stabilization of the hip joint.
Origin, dorsum ilii between middle and inferior curved lines; insertion, great trochanter of femur; nerve supply, superior gluteal; action, abducts thigh.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.