Abductor of hip joint is?
**Core Concept**
The abductor of the hip joint is responsible for stabilizing the pelvis and facilitating lateral movement of the hip. This function is crucial for maintaining balance and facilitating activities such as walking.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The primary abductor of the hip joint is the gluteus medius muscle, which is innervated by the superior gluteal nerve. This muscle works in conjunction with the gluteus minimus to stabilize the pelvis and facilitate abduction of the hip joint. The gluteus medius originates from the external surface of the ilium and inserts onto the greater trochanter of the femur.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Tensor fasciae latae is not a primary abductor of the hip joint, but rather assists in hip flexion and lateral rotation.
* **Option B:** Psoas major is a hip flexor, not an abductor.
* **Option C:** Adductor magnus is actually involved in adduction, not abduction of the hip joint.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The gluteus medius muscle is often affected in conditions such as hip abductor weakness, leading to a characteristic "t Trendelenburg sign" where the pelvis drops on the affected side when the patient stands on the affected leg.
**Correct Answer:** C. Gluteus medius