Lower limb

Superior gluteal nerve

Nervus gluteus superior

Origin

Arises from the posterior divisions of the sacral plexus anterior rami L4, L5, S1

Insertion

Sole nerve exiting the pelvis through the suprapiriform foramen, running between gluteus medius and minimus forward to tensor fasciae latae

Function

Pure motor innervation to the primary hip abductors and pelvic stabilizers: gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, and tensor fasciae latae

Innervation

Pure motor nerve (L4, L5, S1)

Movement & chain

Prevents contralateral pelvic drop during single-leg stance phase of ambulation

Palpation

Not palpable through deep gluteal musculature

Clinical

Positive Trendelenburg sign / Trendelenburg lurch (contralateral hemipelvic sag during stance phase); at high risk of iatrogenic injury during lateral hip approaches (Hardinge approach)

Segmental innervation

L4, L5, S1 spinal segments

In clinical practice

Trendelenburg test is cardinal for hip stability; safe zone for lateral hip surgery is strictly within 3-5 cm proximal to the tip of greater trochanter

Region in the model

Lower limb