Massage Therapy Journal Spring 2024

44 • Massage Therapy Journal

AMTA Continuing Education

Figure 16

Sacrum

Pelvis

Gluteus medius

Gluteus minimus

Piriformis

Gluteus maximus

Obturator internus

Quadratus femoris

Femor

Posterior view

VectorMine / Shutterstock.com

the abdominal contents. The origin of the internal abdominal oblique muscle is on the lateral inguinal ligament, iliac crest and thoracolumbar fascia, and the insertion of this muscle is on the internal surface of the lower three ribs, as well as the rectus sheath to linea alba. 4. The transversus abdominis is deep to the abdomen, much like a corset. The action of the transversus abdominis is to compress the abdominal contents during movements of the whole body. The origin of the transverse abdominis is on the lateral inguinal ligament, the iliac crest, the thoracolumbar fascia, and the internal surface of the lower six ribs, and the insertion is on the rectus sheath to linea alba. These muscles work together to provide stability and movement in various activities, including bending, twisting, lifting and maintaining an upright posture. Strengthening the abdominal muscles is important for overall core strength, spine health and functional movement. The gluteal muscle group , commonly known as the glutes, refers to a set of three internal abdominal oblique layer, with fibers that run transversely across the

muscles located in the hip or buttock region of the human body. These muscles are among the largest and strongest in the body and are crucial for various movements, including hip extension, hip abduction and hip rotation. See Figure 16. The muscles that make up the gluteal muscle group include: • The gluteus maximus is the largest muscle in the gluteal group and is responsible for hip extension. This muscle originates on the coccyx, the edge of the sacrum, the posterior iliac crest, and the sacrotuberous and sacroiliac ligaments, and its insertion is the iliotibial tract and gluteal tuberosity. The gluteus maximus muscle is involved in actions such as standing up from a seated position, climbing stairs and running. • The gluteus medius is situated on the outer surface of the hip and originates from the gluteal surface of the ilium (between the posterior and anterior gluteal lines) just below the iliac crest. This muscle inserts into the greater trochanter of the femur, playing a significant role in hip abduction and stabilization of the pelvis during walking, running and other lower body movements.

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