During normal walking, which hip abductor muscle group prevents the contralateral side of the pelvis from dropping (Trendelenburg sign) during the single-leg stance phase?

• A Gluteus medius and gluteus minimus of the weight-bearing side ✓
• B Gluteus maximus of the weight-bearing side
• C Adductor magnus of the weight-bearing side
• D Tensor fasciae latae of the non-weight-bearing side

Explanation

During single-leg stance, the pelvis must be kept level (or slightly elevated on the swing side) to allow the swing leg to clear the ground. The gluteus medius and gluteus minimus of the stance limb (inserting into the greater trochanter) contract to abduct the hip and support the contralateral pelvis. If these muscles are weak or denervated (superior gluteal nerve palsy at L4–L5), the pelvis drops to the opposite side — a positive Trendelenburg sign. Gluteus maximus is primarily a hip extensor. Adductor magnus adducts and does not prevent pelvic drop.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.