Presentation of the Hip Region of a Black Female's Lower Limb

Description

Shown in lateral profile, the hip (coxal) region is defined by the iliac crest superiorly, the anterior superior iliac spine anteriorly, and the posterior contour of the buttock overlying the gluteus maximus. The greater trochanter of the femur sits lateral to the acetabulum and is framed by the gluteus medius and minimus proximally, with the tensor fasciae latae blending into the iliotibial tract along the lateral thigh. Inferiorly, the gluteal fold marks the transition toward the proximal hamstrings, while the femoral shaft descends distal to the trochanter in line with the body’s weight-bearing axis. Skin and subcutaneous contour are preserved for surface anatomy reference. A lateral presentation like this is the workhorse view for correlating palpable landmarks with deep structure: the greater trochanter is the key reference point for locating the hip joint line (medial and slightly superior), orienting the femoral neck, and estimating acetabular coverage in clinical exam and procedural planning. It also sets up common pain generators on the lateral hip, where gluteus medius tendinopathy and trochanteric bursitis cluster around the peritrochanteric space and often mimic intra-articular pathology. Trendelenburg mechanics live here. For surgeons, the lateral hip contour helps explain where the direct lateral (Hardinge) approach traverses the abductor interval and why protecting the superior gluteal nerve proximal to the greater trochanter matters. Use this figure in musculoskeletal anatomy and surface anatomy courses when teaching landmark palpation, gait analysis, and safe orientation for gluteal intramuscular injection (upper outer quadrant, away from the sciatic nerve). It also fits orthopaedic and sports medicine materials covering lateral hip pain syndromes, hip arthroplasty approaches, and rehabilitation cueing for abductor weakness. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.