Posterior hip innervation and action

Question 1

Gluteus maximus

Answer 1

Innervation: L5-S1-S2
Action: powerful extensor of flexed femur at hip joint
lateral stabilizer of the hip and knee joints
externally rotates and abducts the thigh

Question 2

Gluteus medius

Answer 2

Innervation: L4-L5-S1
superior gluteal nerve
Action: -abducts femur at hip joint
- holds pelvis secure of stance leg preventing
pelvic drop with gait
- internally rotates thigh

Question 3

Gluteus minimus

Answer 3

Innervation: L4-L5-S1
superior gluteal nerve
Action: -abducts femur at hip
- holds pelvis secure of stance leg preventing
pelvic drop with gait
- internally rotates thigh

Question 4

Piriformis

Answer 4

Innervation: L5-S1-S2
Action: Externally rotates the extended femur at the hip
Abducts flexed femur at hip joint