Nerve
Inferior gluteal nerve
Nerve to gluteus maximus
High-yield
Injury weakens rising from sitting, climbing stairs, and jumping (hip extension). Supplies no skin.
Overview
A sacral plexus nerve exiting below piriformis to supply the gluteus maximus, the chief extensor of the hip.
Reference facts
- Roots
- L5, S1, S2 (sacral plexus)
- Course
- Exits the greater sciatic foramen inferior to piriformis and enters the deep surface of gluteus maximus
- Motor
- Gluteus maximus
- Sensory
- No cutaneous sensory territory - this nerve is purely motor.
Frequently asked questions
What are the roots of the inferior gluteal nerve?
The inferior gluteal nerve arises from L5, S1, S2 (sacral plexus).
What muscles does the inferior gluteal nerve supply?
The inferior gluteal nerve supplies the gluteus maximus.
What is the sensory distribution of the inferior gluteal nerve?
No cutaneous sensory territory - this nerve is purely motor.
What is the course of the inferior gluteal nerve?
Exits the greater sciatic foramen inferior to piriformis and enters the deep surface of gluteus maximus.