AnatomyDeck

Muscle

Obturator internus

Lateral rotator of the hip

Lower limbMuscular system

High-yield

Exits the lesser sciatic foramen; lateral rotator of the extended thigh. Nerve to obturator internus (L5–S2).

Overview

A muscle arising inside the pelvis that turns 90° around the lesser sciatic notch to laterally rotate the hip.

Reference facts

  • Origin

    Pelvic surface of the obturator membrane and surrounding bone

  • Insertion

    Medial surface of the greater trochanter of the femur

  • Action

    Laterally rotates the extended thigh; abducts the flexed thigh; steadies the hip

  • Innervation

    Nerve to obturator internus (L5, S1, S2)

  • Blood supply

    Internal pudendal / inferior gluteal arteries

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