Arteria glutes: The arteries that supply the gluteal region and hip joint


    Arteria glutes: The arteries that supply the gluteal region and hip joint

    The arteria glutes are a group of arteries that branch from the internal iliac artery and supply the gluteal region and hip joint. The internal iliac artery is a major artery of the pelvis that divides into an anterior and a posterior trunk. The arteria glutes arise from both trunks and include the following arteries:

    • The superior gluteal artery: This is the largest and final branch of the posterior trunk of the internal iliac artery. It exits the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen above the piriformis muscle and splits into two terminal branches: superficial and deep. The superficial branch supplies the gluteus maximus muscle and the skin over the sacrum, while the deep branch supplies the gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, tensor fasciae latae muscles and the hip joint.
    • The inferior gluteal artery: This is one of the terminal branches of the anterior trunk of the internal iliac artery. It exits the pelvis through the lower part of the greater sciatic foramen below the piriformis muscle and runs deep to the gluteus maximus muscle. It gives off muscular branches to supply the gluteus maximus, obturator internus, superior gemellus, inferior gemellus, quadratus femoris and hamstring muscles. It also gives off an artery to the sciatic nerve and several anastomotic branches that connect with other arteries of the gluteal region.

    The arteria glutes are important for providing blood flow to the muscles and structures of the gluteal region and hip joint. They also form numerous anastomoses with other arteries of the pelvis and thigh, which can provide collateral circulation in case of injury or occlusion.

    Diseases and injuries of the arteria glutes

    The arteria glutes are vulnerable to various diseases and injuries that can affect their function and cause pain and disability. Some of the common conditions that affect the arteria glutes are:

    • Gluteal tendinopathy: This is a chronic degeneration of the tendons that attach the gluteal muscles to the greater trochanter of the femur. It causes pain in the lateral hip area that worsens with activities such as walking, running, climbing stairs and lying on the affected side. Gluteal tendinopathy is more common in older women and people who engage in repetitive movements that stress the tendons. Physical therapy exercises can help strengthen the tendons and muscles and reduce pain.
    • Trochanteric bursitis: This is an inflammation of the bursa sacs that cushion the space between the greater trochanter and the gluteal muscles. It causes pain and tenderness in the lateral hip area that may radiate to the thigh. Trochanteric bursitis can result from overuse, injury, infection or arthritis. Treatment options include rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections and physical therapy.
    • Dead butt syndrome: This is a colloquial term for gluteal amnesia, a condition where the gluteal muscles become weak and inactive due to prolonged sitting or lack of exercise. It causes reduced mobility and stability of the hips and lower back, as well as lower back pain and poor posture. Dead butt syndrome can be prevented and treated by doing regular exercises that activate and strengthen the gluteal muscles, such as squats, lunges, bridges and clamshells.

    The arteria glutes are essential for maintaining the health and function of the gluteal region and hip joint. By avoiding risk factors, recognizing symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment, you can prevent or manage diseases and injuries of the arteria glutes.

    Hi, I’m Adam Smith

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