AnatomyDeck

Muscle

Obturator externus

Lateral rotator (medial thigh group)

Lower limbMuscular system

High-yield

Obturator nerve (not a gluteal nerve); laterally rotates the thigh.

Overview

A deep muscle on the external obturator membrane that laterally rotates the hip; the only obturator-nerve-supplied lateral rotator.

Reference facts

  • Origin

    External surface of the obturator membrane and margins of the obturator foramen

  • Insertion

    Trochanteric fossa of the femur

  • Action

    Laterally rotates the thigh; steadies the femoral head in the acetabulum

  • Innervation

    Obturator nerve (L3, L4)

  • Blood supply

    Obturator artery

Your notes