Nerve
Inferior gluteal nerve
Sacral-plexus motor route to gluteus maximus
High-yield
Gluteus maximus weakness can make it harder to rise from a chair or climb stairs. Although usually taught as a motor nerve, cutaneous branches near the greater trochanter have been demonstrated in dissections.
Overview
The inferior gluteal nerve usually leaves the pelvis below piriformis and branches onto the deep surface of gluteus maximus. It enables powerful hip extension, especially when rising, climbing or accelerating.
Reference facts
- Root value
- Posterior divisions of L5, S1 and S2 ventral rami in the sacral plexus
- Course
- Usually exits the greater sciatic foramen below piriformis and divides into branches entering the deep surface of gluteus maximus
- Motor
- Gluteus maximus
- Sensory
- No large consistent textbook cutaneous territory; small skin branches near the posterior greater trochanter have been reported, alongside sensory fibers from the muscle
Clinical correlation
An inferior gluteal lesion can lead to a backward trunk lurch during the stance phase as the person compensates for weak hip extension. The pattern depends on the extent of weakness and other muscles' compensation.
Frequently asked questions
What are the roots of the inferior gluteal nerve?
Posterior divisions of L5, S1 and S2 ventral rami in the sacral plexus.
What muscles does the inferior gluteal nerve supply?
The inferior gluteal nerve supplies the gluteus maximus.
What is the sensory distribution of the inferior gluteal nerve?
No large consistent textbook cutaneous territory; small skin branches near the posterior greater trochanter have been reported, alongside sensory fibers from the muscle.
What is the course of the inferior gluteal nerve?
Usually exits the greater sciatic foramen below piriformis and divides into branches entering the deep surface of gluteus maximus.