When the gluteus medius is weak, which muscle is typically strained or injured?

When the gluteus medius is weak, the tensor fascia latae (TFL) is typically strained or injured. The gluteus medius plays a crucial role in stabilizing the pelvis during activities such as walking or running. It helps in hip abduction and maintaining proper alignment of the lower limbs.

When the gluteus medius is not functioning effectively, the TFL often compensates for this lack of stability and support. As a result, the TFL becomes overloaded as it tries to take on some of the responsibilities that would normally be managed by the gluteus medius. This overuse can lead to strain or injury in the TFL as it struggles to compensate for the weakness of the gluteus medius.

The other muscles listed do not have the same direct compensatory relationship with the gluteus medius. The rectus femoris is primarily involved in hip flexion and knee extension, the adductor magnus functions mainly in adduction of the thigh, and the quadratus lumborum plays a role in lateral flexion of the spine and stabilizing the pelvis, but they do not specifically take over the stabilization function of the gluteus medius when it is weak.