Gemelli Muscles

Written by Dr Oliver Jones

Last updated November 6, 2025
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Gemelli Muscles - Podcast Version

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The superior and inferior gemelli muscles are located within the gluteal region in the lower limb. They are narrow and triangular-shaped, separated by the obturator internus tendon.

  • Attachments:
    • Superior gemellus muscle originates from the ischial spine
    • Inferior gemellus muscle originates from the ischial tuberosity.
    • They both attach onto the greater trochanter of the femur.
  • Actions: Lateral rotation and abduction.
  • Innervation:
    • Superior gemellus muscle is innervated by the nerve to obturator internus
    • Inferior gemellus is innervated by the nerve to quadratus femoris.
  • Blood Supply: Inferior gluteal artery
Illustration depicting the deep muscles of the gluteal region, including the quadratus femoris, obturator internus, piriformis, and gemelli muscles.

Fig 1.2
The deep muscles of the gluteal region.

Pro Feature - 3D Model
Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas