Deep lateral rotators of the hip

Deep lateral rotators of the hip are a group of six muscles in the human body that are situated beneath the gluteus maximus muscle. These muscles play a crucial role in the lateral rotation of the thigh at the hip joint. The deep lateral rotators include the piriformis, gemellus superior, gemellus inferior, obturator internus, obturator externus, and the quadratus femoris.

Function

The primary function of the deep lateral rotators is to facilitate the lateral (external) rotation of the thigh at the hip joint. Additionally, these muscles help stabilize the femoral head in the acetabulum of the pelvis, contributing to the stability of the hip joint during various activities.

Anatomy

Piriformis

The piriformis originates from the anterior part of the sacrum and inserts on the greater trochanter of the femur. It is notable for the fact that the sciatic nerve often runs below or through it.

Gemellus Superior

The gemellus superior originates from the ischial spine and inserts along with the obturator internus tendon on the medial surface of the greater trochanter of the femur.

Gemellus Inferior

The gemellus inferior originates from the ischial tuberosity and also inserts on the medial surface of the greater trochanter of the femur, just below the insertion of the gemellus superior and obturator internus.

Obturator Internus

The obturator internus muscle originates from the inner surface of the obturator membrane and the surrounding bones. It exits the pelvis through the lesser sciatic foramen and inserts on the greater trochanter of the femur.

Obturator Externus

The obturator externus is unique among the deep lateral rotators in that it originates from the external surface of the obturator membrane and the surrounding bones, and it inserts into the trochanteric fossa of the femur.

Quadratus Femoris

The quadratus femoris is a flat, quadrilateral muscle that originates from the ischial tuberosity and inserts into the intertrochanteric crest of the femur.

Clinical Significance

Tightness or injury to any of the deep lateral rotators can lead to hip pain or sciatica, particularly if the piriformis muscle compresses the sciatic nerve, a condition known as piriformis syndrome.

See Also

• Hip muscles
• Muscles of the lower limb
• Sciatic nerve
• Piriformis syndrome

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