What is the main action of the gluteus medius?

The gluteus medius primarily functions to abduct the thigh. This muscle is located on the lateral aspect of the hip and plays a critical role in stabilizing the pelvis during activities such as walking and running. When the gluteus medius contracts, it pulls the thigh away from the midline of the body, contributing to the movement of the leg out to the side.

Additionally, the gluteus medius assists in stabilizing the pelvic girdle, which is essential for maintaining balance and proper alignment during lower limb movements. This abduction action is particularly important for activities that require lateral movements, as well as for preventing excessive tilting of the pelvis when standing on one leg.

Other choices such as adduction, flexion, and extension describe different movements that are either performed by different muscles or involve other actions of the hip joint but do not correctly identify the primary function of the gluteus medius.