ANATOMY

Gluteus Maximus Muscle is a narrow, thick fleshy mass which is Quadrilateral in shape and forms the shape of Nates (buttocks). Its large size is its prominent feature which gives power to the trunk to maintain a straight posture.

This muscle originates from the posterior Gluteal Line of inner upper Ileum (upper and largest bone of Pelvis) and crest containing rough part of bone. It also originates from the posterior surface of the Sacrum (triangular bone at base of spine), side of Coccyx (tailbone), Sacrotuberous Ligament (situated at lower part of Pelvis) and Fascia covering the Gluteus Medius. Gluteus Maximus muscle has two end points.

• Lower portion together with the fibers of lower portion ends in the thick tendinous Lamina passing across the Greater Trochanter.

• Deep fibers of the lower portion end into Gluteal tuberosity which is in between Vastus Lateralis Muscle and Adductor Magnus Muscle.

INNERVATION

Gluteus Maximus Muscle receives its innervations from the Inferior Gluteal Nerve L5, S1 and S2.

BLOOD SUPPLY

The supply of blood and nutrients to the Gluteus Maximus Muscle is provided by Superior and Inferior Gluteal Arteries.

FUNCTION

Gluteus Maximus muscle being fixed in a point at Pelvis extends the Femur and brings the bent Thigh in line with the body. It acts upon the Pelvis and supports it. It’s most powerful function is to bring the body in straight posture after stopping as it pulls the Pelvis backwards.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Gluteus Maximus Muscle can suffer from the Gluteus Maximus Syndrome. The syndrome causes the pain while rising to a standing position or lowering to sit. The pain usually disappears after sitting and only affects one side of the body.

Another condition related to the muscle is Bursitis or Tendinitis. This is caused by the inflammation of muscle tendons or friction between bones, tendons and Gluteus Maximus.

Gluteus maximus is a common site for intra-muscular injections.