Knee flexors

Knee Flexors

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Knee flexion

The Knee flexors are a group of muscles that work together to flex the knee joint. These muscles are located in the posterior compartment of the thigh and include the hamstring muscles and the gastrocnemius muscle.

Anatomy

The knee flexors include the following muscles:

• Biceps femoris: This muscle has two heads, the long head and the short head. The long head originates from the ischial tuberosity and the short head from the femur.
• Semitendinosus: This muscle originates from the ischial tuberosity and inserts into the tibia.
• Semimembranosus: This muscle also originates from the ischial tuberosity and inserts into the medial condyle of the tibia.
• Gastrocnemius: This muscle originates from the femur and inserts into the calcaneus via the Achilles tendon.

Function

The primary function of the knee flexors is to bend the knee, bringing the heel towards the buttocks. This action is essential for many activities, including walking, running, jumping, and kicking.

Clinical Significance

Injury to the knee flexors, such as a hamstring strain, can cause pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Treatment may include rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery.

See Also

• Knee extensors
• Knee joint
• Muscles of the lower limb