Which action does the gluteus minimus primarily perform?

Which action does the gluteus minimus primarily perform?

• A. Medial Rotation
• B. Flexion
• C. Extension
• D. Abduction

Answer: (D)

Abduction of the thigh at the hip is the primary action of the gluteus minimus. This muscle sits under the gluteus medius and attaches from the ilium to the anterior facet of the greater trochanter, so when it contracts it pulls the greater trochanter laterally and moves the thigh away from the midline. Functionally, it helps keep the pelvis level during single-leg stance, working together with the gluteus medius during gait. The anterior fibers can medially rotate the hip and assist with flexion when the hip is flexed, but those are secondary effects compared with its main role in abduction.

Abduction of the thigh at the hip is the primary action of the gluteus minimus. This muscle sits under the gluteus medius and attaches from the ilium to the anterior facet of the greater trochanter, so when it contracts it pulls the greater trochanter laterally and moves the thigh away from the midline. Functionally, it helps keep the pelvis level during single-leg stance, working together with the gluteus medius during gait. The anterior fibers can medially rotate the hip and assist with flexion when the hip is flexed, but those are secondary effects compared with its main role in abduction.