MEDICAL DICTIONARY

Table of Contents

Backside

The term backside is commonly used informally to refer to the posterior part of the human body, specifically the buttocks. The buttocks are a prominent feature located on the posterior pelvic region and serve various functions related to movement, posture, and cushioning.

Anatomy

  • Muscles:
    • The buttocks are primarily composed of the gluteal muscles:
      • Gluteus Maximus:
        • The largest and most superficial muscle.
        • Function: Extends and externally rotates the hip; assists in maintaining posture.
      • Gluteus Medius:
        • Located beneath the gluteus maximus.
        • Function: Abducts and medially rotates the thigh.
      • Gluteus Minimus:
        • The smallest and deepest gluteal muscle.
        • Function: Similar to the gluteus medius, aids in hip stabilization.
  • Fat Deposits:
    • A significant layer of adipose tissue provides cushioning and contributes to the rounded appearance of the buttocks.
  • Bones:
    • The pelvis, specifically the ischial tuberosities (commonly known as “sitting bones”), forms the skeletal foundation of the buttocks.
  • Skin and Fascia:
    • The skin over the buttocks is relatively thick and contains sebaceous and sweat glands.
    • The underlying fascia supports and protects deeper structures.

Function

  • Support and Posture:
    • The buttocks stabilize the pelvis and aid in maintaining an upright posture.
  • Movement:
    • The gluteal muscles play a key role in walking, running, climbing, and other lower body movements by controlling hip extension, rotation, and abduction.
  • Cushioning:
    • The adipose tissue and underlying structures cushion the body during sitting.
  • Aesthetic and Social Importance:
    • The buttocks are culturally significant, often associated with body image and aesthetics.

Common Conditions and Disorders

  • Muscle Strain:
    • Overuse or injury to the gluteal muscles can cause pain and limited mobility.
  • Sciatica:
    • Compression of the sciatic nerve, which passes through the buttocks, can lead to pain radiating down the leg.
  • Pressure Ulcers:
    • Prolonged sitting or immobility may cause skin breakdown over the buttocks.
  • Piriformis Syndrome:
    • Tightness or spasm of the piriformis muscle, located beneath the gluteal muscles, can compress the sciatic nerve.

Exercises for Strengthening the Backside

Squats, lunges, deadlifts, and hip thrusts are effective for strengthening and toning the gluteal muscles.

References
  1. Moore KL, Dalley AF, Agur AM. “Clinically Oriented Anatomy.” Wolters Kluwer Health, 7th Edition.
  2. Gray H. “Gray’s Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice.” Elsevier Health Sciences, 41st Edition.
  3. Wikipedia contributors. “Buttocks.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buttocks (accessed January 8, 2025).