Download Why is the Gluteus Medius so Important to Strengthen?

Why is the Gluteus Medius so Important to Strengthen?
In the human body there are three gluteal muscles that form the buttocks. They are the gluteus
maximus, gluteus medius and gluteus minimus as shown in the diagram on the right.
In the article “Gluteus Medius: Weak Buttocks Ruin the Runner” by Sean Fyfe – he says, gluteus medius
weakness is the main culprit in many overuse injuries.
*So what is the function of the gluteus medius?
The gluteus medius muscle originates from the crest of the pelvis and inserts into the thigh bone.
When the leg is straight, the gluteus medius muscle abducts the thigh i.e. pulls the thigh away from
the midline. During walking, it functions to support the body on one leg, to prevent the pelvis from
dropping to the opposite side. Additionally, when the hip is flexed the gluteus medius internally rotate the
thigh. With the hip extended, the gluteus medius externally rotate the thigh.
When the gluteus medius does not function well, there are implications down to the lower limbs.
During walking or running, the following adaptations may occur:
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The thigh adducts (pulls to the midline) and internally rotates excessively
The knee falls into a valgus position (knock knee position)
The tibia (lower leg bone) internally rotates relative to the foot
An increase in weight transfer to the medial (inner) aspect of the foot
As a consequence a person who does many hours of running may develop problems due to IT Band
Sydrome, Patellafemoral Pain Syndrome, Hip Pain, overpronation such as shin splints or Achilles tendinitis:
A person with weak gluteus medius may exhibit the Trendenlenburg sign during walking:
The pelvis will drop on the opposite side. If this situation is not addressed, there will be risks of structural
overload to the lumbar spine, sacroiliac joint , hip and knee – and may cause excessive wear and tear at
these joints.
If you are having hip pain, knee pain, or any other lower extremity problem, a physical therapist will
include a muscular screening of the gluteal muscles. If weakness is identified, specific exercises can be
initiated to improve the function of the gluteus medius.
Schedule an appointment with Bridget Faucher, PT, DPT, OCS today to see if your hip, knee or foot/ankle
pain is being caused by Gluteal Weakness! Contact the front desk to schedule!