A structured review of the role of gluteus maximus in rehabilitation

Gluteus maximus is the largest muscle in the body and is important in many functional activities such as walking, running and lifting. The aim of this structured review was to investigate the role of gluteus maximus in functional rehabilitation. A computerised literature search of five electronic databases was conducted to seek papers which reported investigations of function, altered function and rehabilitation of gluteus maximus. A total of 34 articles were identified for inclusion in the present structured review. Gluteus maximus has a role in walking and lifting activities as well as providing stability to the sacroiliac joint. The function and properties of gluteus maximus may be altered when changes to the kinetic chain of the lower limb occur as a result of injury or altered biomechanics. The activation level of gluteus maximus was found to be highest when a full squat exercise was performed. Incline running, the use of balance shoes and, to a lesser extent, level running are also effective methods of increasing the activity of gluteus maximus. While research has identified which exercises most effectively activate gluteus maximus, it is still unknown whether the neuro-muscular activation during these particular exercises is high enough to bring about a training effect within the normal population. Wilson J, Ferris E, Heckler A, Maitland L, Taylor C (2005). A structured review of the role of gluteus maximus in rehabilitation. New Zealand Journal of Physiotherapy 33(3) 95-100.

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