Gluteus Maximus Muscle

Origin & Insertion

It originates from a relatively large area on the pelvis. Starting at the top, it attaches to the gluteal surface of the ileum, just behind the posterior gluteal line, the posterior border of the ileum and the adjacent part of the iliac crest.

The bottom part of the attachment is to the side of the coccyx (tailbone) and the posterior surface of the sacrum, including the upper part of the sacrotuberous ligament, the fascia of gluteus medius and the aponeurosis of erector spinae.

If you imagine placing your hand in the back pocket of your trousers, this will largely cover the area of the pelvis that gluteus maximus arises from. 

Gluteus Maximus Function

Gluteus maximus works in a number of ways depending on the position of the body. When acting from above (i.e. the pelvis is the fixed point), it pulls the femoral shaft backwards from a flexed position, extending the hip in to line with the body.

To put it simply, gluteus maximus:

• Produces extension of a flexed hip joint such as the push up phase when climbing stairs, stepping up onto a step or coming up from squatting
• Rotate the thigh slightly laterally, i.e. outwards, as it leg extends
• Plays little part in normal walking
• upper muscle fibers help to abduct the hip i.e. draw it outwards
• lower fibers adduct the hip i.e. draw it inwards
• When acting from below i.e. the femur is the fixed point, gluteus maximus supports the pelvis and trunk on the femur so we can stand upright.

Gluteus maximus's most powerful action is working with the hamstring muscles (semimembranosus, semitendinosus and the long head of biceps femoris) to pull the pelvis backwards and lift the trunk from a flexed position e.g. coming up to stand up straight from bending forwards. 

The fibers that help form the iliotibial band can help to produce knee extension and provide lateral stability around the knee.

Gluteus maximus also plays a part in maintain good foot position. Its ability to aid lateral rotation of the hip helps to raise the medial longitudinal arch of the foot. You can test this by standing completely relaxed and then clench your glutes tightly together. The inner border of your foot will likely lift up slightly, particularly if you have flat feet.

It also provides cushioning when we sit, subtly contracting at times to redistribute weight to relieve pressure on the bony points of the ischial tuberosities – if you sit on your hands, these are the bony points that you will feel digging in to your fingers. 

Common Problems

The most common problem to develop in gluteus maximus is muscle imbalance, most typically weakness and tightness in the muscle. This can affect the hip and knee angle leading to pain and dysfunction.

If you have problems with your gluteus maximus have a look at:

• Glute Stretches: Great exercises for stretching the gluteal muscles which can help relieve back, hip and knee pain
  
  
• Glute Strengthening Exercises: A whole range of exercises to strengthen the glutes 
  
  
• ITB Syndrome: Irritation of the iliotibial band is a common cause of outer hip and knee pain. Find out how to treat it effectively
  
  
• Leg Muscles: Find out all about the other muscles that control the lower limb

Summary

Other Knee Muscles

Page Last Updated: 13/01/23
Next Review Due: 13/01/25

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