Which muscles are primarily attached to the greater trochanter?

The muscles primarily attached to the greater trochanter are the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus. These muscles are integral to hip stabilization, abduction, and internal rotation. Specifically, the gluteus medius is a major muscle that plays a key role in maintaining pelvic stability during activities such as walking or running. It helps to prevent excessive tilting of the pelvis towards the unsupported side when the opposite leg is lifted. The gluteus minimus, although smaller, assists in similar functions such as hip abduction and medial rotation.

In contrast, the other muscles mentioned have different attachments or functions. The rectus femoris, while important for knee extension, originates from the ilium and is not attached to the greater trochanter. The muscles associated with the adductor longus and tensor fasciae latae do not primarily attach to the greater trochanter either; the adductor longus attaches to the pubis and the tensor fasciae latae primarily attaches to the iliac crest, influencing hip flexion and abduction rather than directly anchoring to the greater trochanter. The pectineus and sartorius, like the others listed, do not have their primary attachments at the greater trochanter