Articularis genus muscle

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Articularis genus muscle

The articularis genus muscle is a small skeletal muscle located in the anterior compartment of the thigh. It is considered a derivative of the vastus intermedius muscle, which is part of the quadriceps femoris group.

Anatomy

The articularis genus muscle originates from the anterior surface of the lower part of the femur, specifically from the distal portion of the vastus intermedius. It inserts into the synovial membrane of the knee joint and the suprapatellar bursa.

Function

The primary function of the articularis genus muscle is to retract the synovial membrane of the knee joint during knee extension. This action helps to prevent the synovial membrane from being pinched between the patella and the femur.

Innervation

The articularis genus muscle is innervated by the femoral nerve, which also supplies the other muscles of the quadriceps femoris group.

Blood Supply

The blood supply to the articularis genus muscle is provided by branches of the femoral artery and the deep femoral artery.

Clinical Significance

Injury or dysfunction of the articularis genus muscle can contribute to knee pain and may be involved in conditions such as patellofemoral pain syndrome. Proper functioning of this muscle is important for the smooth movement of the knee joint.

See Also

• Quadriceps femoris
• Vastus intermedius
• Femoral nerve
• Knee joint
• Patellofemoral pain syndrome