Which muscle originates from the posterior aspect of the iliac crest and inserts into the greater trochanter and is described as the most powerful abductor of the hip?

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

Answer: (A)

The main idea is how hip abduction works from where a muscle attaches. The muscle described originates from the posterior part of the iliac crest and attaches to the greater trochanter, and it acts as the primary hip abductor. That combination of origin and insertion is classic for the gluteus medius. When the gluteus medius contracts, it pulls the femur laterally away from the body's midline, which abducts the hip and also stabilizes the pelvis during single-leg stance—this stability and strength make it the most powerful hip abductor among the options. The other muscles have different primary roles or attachments: gluteus maximus attaches to the gluteal tuberosity and IT band and mainly extends and externally rotates the hip; gluteus minimus also abducts but is smaller and originates more anteriorly, inserting on the anterior facet of the greater trochanter; tensor fasciae latae originates from the iliac crest/ASIS and inserts into the IT band, assisting abduction but not primarily projecting to the greater trochanter.