Which option correctly lists the hip external rotators during gait?

Which option correctly lists the hip external rotators during gait?

• A. Gluteus medius anterior fibers
• B. Tensor fascia lata
• C. Iliopsoas
• D. Six short external rotators, posterior fibers of gluteus medius, gluteus maximus

Answer: (D)

The muscle set tested is the group that produces external rotation of the hip during gait. External rotation of the hip comes from the six short external rotators (the deep outward rotators like piriformis, obturator internus, superior and inferior gemelli, quadratus femoris, and obturator externus) plus the posterior portions of the gluteus medius and gluteus maximus. These muscles actively rotate the thigh outward, helping control the pelvis and thigh alignment as the leg moves through the gait cycle, especially when the hip is extended or needs stabilization in the transverse plane. The other muscles listed do not primarily provide external rotation during gait. The anterior fibers of the gluteus medius favor abduction and internal rotation, while the tensor fascia latae tends to assist in flexion and internal rotation when the hip is flexed and mainly acts as a stabilizer; the iliopsoas is a primary hip flexor. Thus, the complete and correct set for external rotation during gait is the six short external rotators plus the posterior fibers of the gluteus medius and gluteus maximus.

The muscle set tested is the group that produces external rotation of the hip during gait. External rotation of the hip comes from the six short external rotators (the deep outward rotators like piriformis, obturator internus, superior and inferior gemelli, quadratus femoris, and obturator externus) plus the posterior portions of the gluteus medius and gluteus maximus. These muscles actively rotate the thigh outward, helping control the pelvis and thigh alignment as the leg moves through the gait cycle, especially when the hip is extended or needs stabilization in the transverse plane.

The other muscles listed do not primarily provide external rotation during gait. The anterior fibers of the gluteus medius favor abduction and internal rotation, while the tensor fascia latae tends to assist in flexion and internal rotation when the hip is flexed and mainly acts as a stabilizer; the iliopsoas is a primary hip flexor. Thus, the complete and correct set for external rotation during gait is the six short external rotators plus the posterior fibers of the gluteus medius and gluteus maximus.