Which muscle is responsible for abducting and laterally rotating the thigh at the hip?

The piriformis muscle plays a crucial role in both abducting and laterally rotating the thigh at the hip joint. The location of the piriformis is deep within the gluteal region, originating from the sacrum and attaching to the greater trochanter of the femur. During hip motion, when the thigh is flexed, the piriformis becomes active in abducting the thigh away from the midline of the body. Additionally, it is also a lateral rotator of the hip, which means it helps turn the thigh outward.

Understanding the function of the piriformis is essential, especially in activities that require lateral movements of the hip, such as walking, running, and various sports. This makes it a key muscle in maintaining hip stability and mobility.