The greater trochanter is a prominent bony landmark located in the hip region, often serving as a point of reference for understanding the anatomy and function of the upper thigh. This structure plays a role in various movements and can sometimes be associated with discomfort. Understanding its position and purpose helps in comprehending its involvement in overall hip health and mobility.
Locating the Greater Trochanter
The greater trochanter is a large, four-sided bony projection found at the upper part of the femur, which is the thigh bone. It sits where the neck of the femur meets its shaft. This bony eminence is positioned on the upper lateral, or outer, aspect of the proximal femur, making it a palpable structure on the side of the hip.
To locate it, one can feel for a hard, rounded bony point on the side of their upper thigh, just below the hip bone. It is often described as the outermost part of the hip that one might lie on. Moving the leg in and out, or rotating the hip, can help confirm its location as the bony point will move under the fingers.
Role in Hip Movement
The greater trochanter serves as an attachment site for several muscles that facilitate hip movement. Muscles such as the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus, which are part of the buttock muscles, insert onto the greater trochanter. These muscles are involved in abducting the leg, meaning moving it away from the body’s midline, and stabilizing the pelvis during activities like walking and running.
Deep lateral rotators of the hip, including the piriformis, obturator internus, and the superior and inferior gemelli muscles, also attach to the greater trochanter. These muscles work to rotate the thigh outwards. The collective action of these muscle groups allows for a wide range of motion at the hip joint, contributing to daily activities such as standing, climbing stairs, and maintaining balance.
Common Issues
The area around the greater trochanter can be susceptible to certain conditions that cause pain and discomfort. One common issue is greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS), which often encompasses conditions like trochanteric bursitis. Bursitis involves inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the area where tendons and muscles slide over bone.
Pain associated with these conditions typically manifests on the outer side of the hip and can be tender to the touch. This discomfort might worsen with activities such as walking, running, or lying on the affected side. The sensitivity of the greater trochanter to pressure makes it a diagnostic point for healthcare providers assessing hip pain.