Semimembranosus

Semimembranosus is one of the three hamstring muscles that are located at the back of the thigh. The other two are the semitendinosus and biceps femoris. The semimembranosus muscle is the most medial of the three hamstring muscles. It extends the hip joint and flexes the knee joint, in addition to medially rotating the knee.

Origin and Insertion

The semimembranosus, like all the muscles in the posterior thigh, originates from the ischial tuberosity of the pelvis. It extends down the back of the thigh to insert on the medial condyle of the tibia.

Function

The semimembranosus muscle has several functions. It works with the other hamstring muscles to extend the hip joint and flex the knee joint. It also helps to medially rotate the knee. When the knee is flexed, the semimembranosus muscle helps to medially rotate the leg. When the hip is extended, the muscle can also medially rotate the hip.

Clinical Significance

Injury to the semimembranosus muscle is a common sports injury, particularly in sports that involve running. This is often due to an overstretching or tearing of the muscle, known as a strain. Treatment for a semimembranosus strain typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). In severe cases, surgery may be required.

See Also

• Hamstring
• Semitendinosus
• Biceps femoris
• Hip joint
• Knee joint
• Strain (injury)

Semimembranosus Resources
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