The gluteus medius is very important during the stance phase of the gait cycle to maintain both hips at the same level.
Hip abduction is performed primarily by the hip abductors (gluteus medius and minimus).
Additionally, with the hip flexed the gluteus medius and minimus internally rotate the thigh.
The posterior fibres of gluteus medius contract to produce hip extension, lateral rotation and abduction.
In addition to this, the relatively wide shape (front to back) of the pelvis provides greater leverage for the gluteus medius and minimus.
The tensor fasciae latae works in synergy with the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus muscles to abduct and medially rotate the femur.
It is bounded in front by the scalenus medius and behind by splenius cervicis.
The space between the anterior and posterior gluteal lines and the crest is concave, and gives origin to the gluteus medius muscle.
