Which muscle is described as the primary extensor of the hip and originates from the outer surface of the ilium?

• A. Gluteus Medius
• B. Gluteus Minimus
• C. Gluteus Maximus
• D. Tensor Fasciae Latae

Answer: (C)

The main concept here is identifying the muscle that powers hip extension and how its point of origin on the ilium supports that role. Gluteus maximus is the primary hip extensor; it’s the largest buttock muscle and provides the force to straighten the hip when standing up, running, or climbing stairs. It originates from the outer surface of the ilium (the posterior part), as well as from the sacrum and coccyx, and inserts on the femur (gluteal tuberosity) and the iliotibial tract. This arrangement gives it the strong leverage needed to extend the hip.

The other muscles described originate from the outer ilium too but have different primary actions. Gluteus medius and gluteus minimus mainly abduct the thigh and stabilize the pelvis, not extend the hip. Tensor fasciae latae also arises from the outer ilium but primarily flexes and abducts the thigh, aiding in tensioning the fascia lata rather than extending the hip.