Which nerve supplies the gluteus medius?

Which nerve supplies the gluteus medius?

• A. inferior gluteal nerve
• B. sciatic nerve
• C. superior gluteal nerve
• D. femoral nerve

Answer: (C)

The nerve you’re looking for is the superior gluteal nerve. It provides motor supply to the gluteus medius (and also to the gluteus minimus and tensor fasciae latae). This nerve leaves the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen above the piriformis and then divides to reach its target muscles, allowing abduction of the thigh and helping to keep the pelvis level during walking. The other nerves listed don’t innervate the gluteus medius: the inferior gluteal nerve goes to gluteus maximus, the sciatic nerve to most of the posterior thigh and leg, and the femoral nerve to the anterior thigh muscles.

The nerve you’re looking for is the superior gluteal nerve. It provides motor supply to the gluteus medius (and also to the gluteus minimus and tensor fasciae latae). This nerve leaves the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen above the piriformis and then divides to reach its target muscles, allowing abduction of the thigh and helping to keep the pelvis level during walking. The other nerves listed don’t innervate the gluteus medius: the inferior gluteal nerve goes to gluteus maximus, the sciatic nerve to most of the posterior thigh and leg, and the femoral nerve to the anterior thigh muscles.