Muscles are the primary movers of the hip joint, facilitating a range of motions including flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, internal rotation, and external rotation.
Muscles Responsible for Hip Movement
Several muscle groups contribute to the diverse movements of the hip. Here's a breakdown:
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Hip Flexion: The primary hip flexors include the iliopsoas (iliacus and psoas major), rectus femoris (part of the quadriceps), and sartorius.
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Hip Extension: The gluteus maximus is the primary hip extensor, assisted by the hamstring muscles (biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus) and the adductor magnus (specifically, the hamstring portion).
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Hip Abduction: The gluteus medius and gluteus minimus are the main abductors of the hip, moving the leg away from the midline of the body. The tensor fasciae latae (TFL) also assists in this movement.
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Hip Adduction: The adductor muscles (adductor longus, adductor brevis, adductor magnus - adductor portion, gracilis, and pectineus) bring the leg towards the midline of the body.
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Hip Internal Rotation: The gluteus minimus, tensor fasciae latae, and portions of the gluteus medius contribute to internal rotation of the hip.
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Hip External Rotation: Several muscles contribute to external rotation, including the piriformis, obturator internus, obturator externus, gemellus superior, gemellus inferior, and quadratus femoris, often referred to as the "deep six" external rotators. The gluteus maximus also plays a role.
Summary
In essence, a coordinated effort of various muscle groups surrounding the hip joint allows for the wide range of movements necessary for activities such as walking, running, sitting, and maintaining balance.
