The Architectural Design of the Gluteal Muscle Group: Implications for Movement and Rehabilitation

Samuel R. Ward, Taylor M. Winters, Silvia S. Blemker

DOI: 10.2519/jospt.2010.3302

SYNOPSIS: The organization of fibers within a muscle (architecture) defines the performance capacity of that muscle. In the current commentary, basic architectural terms are reviewed in the context of the major hip muscles and then specific illustrative examples relevant to lower extremity rehabilitation are presented. These data demonstrate the architectural and functional specialization of the hip muscles, and highlight the importance of muscle physiology and joint mechanics when evaluating and treating musculoskeletal disorders.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2010;40(2):95-102. doi:10.2519/jospt.2010.3302

KEY WORDS: exercise, gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, hip, rehabilitation

In the current commentary, basic architectural terms are reviewed in the context of the major hip muscles and then specific illustrative examples relevant to lower extremity rehabilitation are presented.

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