Which muscle does NOT attach into the ribs?

The gluteus minimus is the correct answer because this muscle is primarily located in the hip region and does not have any attachments to the ribs. It is involved in hip abduction and medial rotation of the thigh, and its main function is related to the movements of the pelvis and lower limb rather than affecting the thoracic region.

In contrast, the pectoralis major, scalenes, and quadratus lumborum are all muscles that do attach to the ribs. The pectoralis major connects to the sternum and the upper ribs, the scalenes originate from the cervical spine and attach to the first and second ribs, and the quadratus lumborum, while primarily a muscle of the lower back, does have attachments to the lower ribs and plays a role in lateral flexion of the spine. This anatomical understanding is essential in sports massage and rehabilitation, as knowing the muscle attachments can inform treatment techniques and approaches to specific conditions.