Quadriceps muscle

Quadriceps Muscle

The Quadriceps muscle, also known as the quads, is a large muscle group that includes the four prevailing muscles on the front of the thigh. It is the great extensor muscle of the knee, forming a large fleshy mass which covers the front and sides of the femur.

Anatomy

The quadriceps consists of four muscles:

1. Rectus femoris: This muscle extends the knee and flexes the hip.
2. Vastus lateralis: This is the largest and most powerful part of the quadriceps muscle.
3. Vastus medialis: This muscle extends the entire length of the thigh.
4. Vastus intermedius: This muscle lies between the vastus lateralis and vastus medialis on the front of the femur.

Function

The quadriceps play a crucial role in walking, running, jumping and squatting. Because the rectus femoris attaches to the ilium, it is also a hip flexor.

Clinical significance

Injury to the quadriceps muscle often results in a quadriceps tendon tear, which can impair mobility. Treatment for this injury may involve surgery and physical therapy.

See also

• Hamstring
• List of muscles of the human body

References

Quadriceps muscle Resources
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