Which of the following are muscles that move the hip?

• A. Tensor fascia latae and gluteus maximus
• B. Gluteus medius and maximus
• C. Gluteus maximus, minimus and medius
• D. All of these muscles move the hip

Answer: (D)

Movement at the hip comes from muscles that cross the hip joint themselves. The tensor fasciae latae helps flex and abduct the hip and can assist with medial rotation. The gluteus maximus is the main hip extender and also contributes to lateral rotation. The gluteus medius and gluteus minimus abduct the hip and medially rotate it, while also helping stabilize the pelvis during movement. Since all of these muscles cross the hip and actively move it, every one of them contributes to hip motion. That’s why the best choice is the option that includes all of them.