Where it is
Outer surface of the ilium, running to the greater trochanter of the femur. The gluteus minimus lies beneath it.
What it does
Abducts the hip and keeps the pelvis level when you stand on one leg, which is essential for a normal gait.
Clinical relevance
- The ventrogluteal site is the safest site for adult intramuscular injections, away from the sciatic nerve and major vessels.
- Weakness of the gluteus medius causes a Trendelenburg gait (the pelvis drops on the opposite side).
Nursing focus
- Landmarks: palm on the greater trochanter, index finger on the anterior superior iliac spine, middle finger spread along the iliac crest; inject in the V between the fingers.
- Avoid the dorsogluteal site because of the risk of sciatic nerve injury.