The hip is a ball-and-and socket joint formed by the proximal femoral head and acetabulum of the pelvis.
The hip is a ball-and-and socket joint formed by the proximal femoral head and acetabulum of the pelvis. Functionally, it provides weight-bearing support, helps transmit forces from the thorax to the lower extremities while allowing for a wide range of motion. The joint allows for flexion/extension, abduction/adduction, internal and external rotation.
These actions are supported by a complex structure composed of muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and neurovascular bundles. This post seeks to summarize, highlight and review key anatomy of the hip joint. Gluteal Muscles Hamstring Muscles The hip first starts with the gluteal muscles including the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius and gluteus minimus.
These muscles contribute to hip extension, abduction and external rotation. The hamstring muscle group includes the biceps femoris, semitendinosus and semimembranosus. These muscles are the primary extensor muscles of the hip and because they are di-arthrodial, they are also responsible for knee flexion.
They absorb a lot of force during the last phase of the gait cycle. Adductor Muscles Iliopsoas muscles The hip adductor group consists of muscles responsible for bringing the thigh toward the body's midline and stabilizing the pelvis. These include the adductor brevis, adductor longus, adductor magnus, adductor minimus, pectineus, gracilis, and obturator externus.
The hip flexor muscles , which enable hip flexion and forward movement of the thigh, include the iliopsoas (psoas major, psoas minor, and iliacus), rectus femoris, iliocapsularis, sartorius, and pectineus. External rotator muscles Tensor fascia latae The hip external rotator muscle group is responsible for rotating the thigh outward and stabilizing the hip joint during movement. This group includes the piriformis, gemellus superior, obturator internus, gemellus inferior, quadratus femoris, and obturator externus.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to hip anatomy, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
Connect with a doctor, physical therapist, or imaging center near you.
Find a Provider Near You โ