Superior Gemellus

Joe Muscolino

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The superior gemellus of the deep lateral rotator group. The inferior gemellus has been ghosted in.

The Superior Gemellus is a member of the Deep Lateral Rotator Group (also known as the Deep 6), composed of the following six muscles (from superior to inferior):

 

ATTACHMENTS:

  • The superior gemellus attaches from the pelvic bone to the greater trochanter of the femur.
    • The proximal/medial attachment is onto the ischial spine.

 

ACTIONS:

  • Laterally rotates the thigh at the hip joint.
  • Horizontally abducts the thigh at the hip joint.
  • Contralaterally rotates the pelvis at the hip joint.

 

NOTE: A tight superior gemellus can contribute to compression of the sciatic nerve causing symptoms of sciatica. When this occurs, it is called piriformis syndrome.