Largest muscle found in each buttock, close to the surface. It covers parts of gluteus medius, deep lateral hip rotators, and the beginning of the hamstring.

Thick quadrangular muscle, sloping across the buttock at approximately a 45 degree angle.

Muscles composed of parallel muscle fascicles, grouped into larger bundles separated by fibrous septa.

Posterior part of the ilium aka pelvic bone behind the posterior gluteal line.

Hip extension is its primary and most powerful action.

Rising from a seated position

Standing up from a bending position

Walking upstairs or on a hill

Running and jumping

Acting as an anti gravity muscle during sitting, counteracting and controlling hip flexion

The gluteus maximus is innervated by the inferior gluteal nerve.

This nerve originates from the ventral Rami of the spiral nerve roots L5, S1, and S2.

It is unique becuse the inferior gluteal nerve innervates only the gluteus maximus.

Inferior Gluteal Artery : supplies the muscle with superficial skin, and anastomoses with perforating arteries of the lower limb. If it ruptures it can lead to gluteal compartment syndrome and sciatic nerve palsy.

Superior Gluteal Artery : Contributes to blood supply but mainly in superficial branch which forms anastomoses with the branches of interior gluteal Artery.

weakness : the gluteus maximus is weak (not activating properly) other synergistic muscles may compensate, potentially leading to pain or injury especially in the back or lower extremity.

Paralysis: paralysis gluteus maximus does not significantly affect walking on a flat surface as it primarily contracts during specific parts of the stance phase of ambulation.

Step-ups

Hip thrusts

Deadlifts

Squats

Lunges

Have a person lay in their stomach

Locate posterior superior iliac spine at the top of the hip

Move inferior and lateral from the PSIS

Ask the person to gently extend their hip

You can palpate it during functional movements like standing hip extensions for a step-up.

Lower back pain

Swelling and inflammation

Decreased range of motion

Inability to pull full weight on the affected leg

Difficulty with balance

Rest and protection

Rest, ice, compression, and elevation

Medications for pain

Physical Therapy

Low impact actives