Muscle
Gluteus minimus
Deep hip abductor
High-yield
Deepest gluteal; abducts and medially rotates the thigh. Superior gluteal nerve (shared with medius and TFL).
Overview
The smallest, deepest gluteal muscle, acting with gluteus medius to abduct the hip and stabilise the pelvis.
Reference facts
- Origin
- External ilium between the anterior and inferior gluteal lines
- Insertion
- Anterior surface of the greater trochanter of the femur
- Action
- Abducts and medially rotates the thigh; steadies the pelvis
- Innervation
- Superior gluteal nerve (L4, L5, S1)
- Blood supply
- Superior gluteal artery
Frequently asked questions
What does the gluteus minimus do?
The gluteus minimus abducts and medially rotates the thigh; steadies the pelvis.
What nerve innervates the gluteus minimus?
The gluteus minimus is innervated by the superior gluteal nerve (L4, L5, S1).
Where does the gluteus minimus attach?
The gluteus minimus originates from the external ilium between the anterior and inferior gluteal lines and inserts on the anterior surface of the greater trochanter of the femur.
What is the blood supply of the gluteus minimus?
The gluteus minimus is supplied by the superior gluteal artery.