Gluteus Maximus and Surrounding Muscles Injuries

Abstract

Although rare, sports related injuries to the gluteus maximus (GM) and adjacent structures can cause pain and disability in athletes. Trauma, impingement with adjacent bony structures and overuse are among the most common etiologies for pathologic processes at this region. MRI is the modality of choice for imaging of gluteal region, which has a complex anatomy and physiology. Multiple pathologic processes take place at the GM and surroundings and knowledge of the imaging aspects of each of these conditions is important for patient management. In this chapter, after a brief review of key anatomical and physiologic aspects, the imaging findings of various sport related injuries of the gluteal region are presented.