Abductor Longus Muscle !exclusive! -

The abductor longus is a skeletal muscle located in the lateral compartment of the thigh. As its name implies— abductor (to draw away from the midline), longus (long)—it is a primary abductor of the hip joint and one of the three gluteal abductors, alongside the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus. Despite being less commonly discussed than the gluteus medius, the abductor longus plays a critical role in lower limb biomechanics, pelvic stability during gait, and the pathogenesis of several common musculoskeletal disorders. This essay provides a comprehensive overview of the abductor longus, covering its gross anatomy, innervation, blood supply, functional role, and clinical relevance.