The gluteus medius is the primary hip abductor and single-leg stance stabiliser. Its posterior facet insertion on the greater trochanter is the zone of tendinopathy in greater trochanteric pain syndrome.
| Origin | External surface of the ilium — between the anterior and posterior gluteal lines |
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| Insertion | Lateral surface of the greater trochanter — posterior facet primarily |
| Nerve Supply | Superior gluteal nerve (L4, L5, S1) |
| Blood Supply | Superior gluteal artery |
| Actions | Abducts the hip — the primary hip abductor; Anterior fibres: flex and medially rotate the hip; Posterior fibres: extend and laterally rotate the hip; Stabilises the pelvis during single-leg stance — prevents contralateral pelvic drop |
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Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (previously called trochanteric bursitis) is primarily a gluteus medius tendinopathy at the posterior facet footprint. Ultrasound identifies the tendon tears. PRP and cortisone injections target the footprint. Gluteus medius repair (analogous to rotator cuff repair at the hip) is performed arthroscopically for full-thickness tears. Trendelenburg gait results from gluteus medius weakness.
Palpated over the posterior greater trochanter during resisted hip abduction.
Tendinopathy and partial tears of the gluteus medius footprint on the posterior greater trochanter producing lateral hip pain, managed by load management, injection, and arthroscopic repair for full-thickness tears.
