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AN16.1-6 | Introduction to Gluteal region & back of thigh

Learning Objectives

  • Describe the gluteal muscles (maximus, medius, minimus, deep lateral rotators) with their attachments, nerve supply, and actions (AN16.1)
  • Identify structures deep to gluteus maximus; explain the safe zone for intramuscular injection and the risk of sciatic nerve injury (AN16.2)
  • Explain the anatomical basis of Trendelenburg sign including the role of gluteus medius/minimus (AN16.3)
  • Describe the hamstring group — biceps femoris, semitendinosus, semimembranosus — with attachments, nerve supply, and actions; include hamstring strain mechanism (AN16.4)
  • Trace the sciatic nerve and its branches, the posterior cutaneous nerve of thigh, and the profunda femoris artery on the back of the thigh (AN16.5)
  • Define the boundaries, roof, floor, contents, and clinical anatomy of the popliteal fossa — including popliteal aneurysm and Baker's cyst (AN16.6)

INSTRUCTIONS

Work through each section in order. Each section ends with a self-check quiz — answer it before moving on. Refer to your dissection guide and Cunningham's manual alongside this resource.

References

  • Gray's Anatomy for Students (Drake et al.) — Lower Limb (Textbook)
  • BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy Vol. 2 — Gluteal Region (Textbook)
  • Clinically Oriented Anatomy (Moore et al.) — Lower Limb (Textbook)
  • OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology 2e — Muscles of the Pelvic Girdle and Lower Limbs (Open Access)

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