Nerve
Superior gluteal nerve
Hip abductors
High-yield
Injury → positive Trendelenburg sign (pelvis drops on the contralateral swing side). Supplies no skin.
Overview
A sacral plexus nerve leaving the pelvis above piriformis to supply the hip abductors, essential for pelvic stability in gait.
Reference facts
- Roots
- L4, L5, S1 (sacral plexus)
- Course
- Exits the greater sciatic foramen superior to piriformis with the superior gluteal vessels, running between gluteus medius and minimus
- Motor
- Gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, and tensor fasciae latae
- Sensory
- No cutaneous sensory territory - this nerve is purely motor.
Clinical correlation
Superior gluteal nerve palsy produces a Trendelenburg gait.
Frequently asked questions
What are the roots of the superior gluteal nerve?
The superior gluteal nerve arises from L4, L5, S1 (sacral plexus).
What muscles does the superior gluteal nerve supply?
The superior gluteal nerve supplies the gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, and tensor fasciae latae.
What is the sensory distribution of the superior gluteal nerve?
No cutaneous sensory territory - this nerve is purely motor.
What is the course of the superior gluteal nerve?
Exits the greater sciatic foramen superior to piriformis with the superior gluteal vessels, running between gluteus medius and minimus.