Articularis genus muscle

Articularis Genus Muscle

Articularis genus muscle (shown in red)

The Articularis Genus Muscle is a small skeletal muscle located in the anterior compartment of the thigh. It is the smallest muscle that extends the knee, and is often considered a part of the quadriceps femoris.

Anatomy

The Articularis Genus originates from the anterior surface of the distal part of the body of the femur. It inserts into the synovial membrane of the knee joint. The muscle is innervated by the Femoral nerve.

Function

The primary function of the Articularis Genus is to retract the suprapatellar bursa during extension of the knee, preventing impingement of the bursa between the patella and the femur.

Clinical Significance

Due to its small size and deep location, the Articularis Genus is rarely injured. However, it may be involved in conditions such as Anterior knee pain syndrome and Patellofemoral pain syndrome.

See Also

• List of muscles of the human body
• Knee
• Quadriceps femoris