What is the greater trochanter?

The greater trochanter is a significant anatomical feature that serves as a large bony prominence located on the lateral side of the proximal femur, which is the upper part of the thigh bone. Its primary function is to serve as an attachment point for various muscles, specifically those involved in hip movement. These muscles include the gluteus medius and the gluteus minimus, which play key roles in the stabilization of the hip and in movements such as walking and running. The prominence of the greater trochanter is essential for the transmission of forces from the muscles to the femur, aiding in effective movement and balance. Understanding this bony landmark is crucial in both anatomy and clinical practice, particularly in sports medicine and rehabilitation, as it is often involved in injuries and conditions affecting the hip joint.