Vastus muscles

Vastus Muscles are a group of muscles located in the anterior compartment of the thigh. They are part of the quadriceps muscle group, which is responsible for extending the knee joint. The vastus muscles include the Vastus Lateralis, Vastus Medialis, Vastus Intermedius, and the Vastus Medialis Oblique.

Etymology

The term "vastus" is derived from the Latin word "vastus," which means "huge" or "great." This is likely a reference to the size and strength of these muscles.

Anatomy

The vastus muscles originate from different areas of the femur, but they all insert into the patella via the quadriceps tendon. The Vastus Lateralis originates from the greater trochanter and lateral lip of the linea aspera of the femur. The Vastus Medialis originates from the medial lip of the linea aspera. The Vastus Intermedius originates from the anterior and lateral surfaces of the body of the femur. The Vastus Medialis Oblique is a part of the vastus medialis, but it has a separate insertion into the patella.

Function

The primary function of the vastus muscles is to extend the knee. They are also involved in stabilizing the patella and the knee joint during walking and running.

Clinical Significance

Injuries to the vastus muscles can result in pain and difficulty in extending the knee. Conditions such as Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome and Chondromalacia Patellae are often associated with dysfunction of the vastus medialis oblique.

Related Terms

• Quadriceps Femoris
• Knee Joint
• Patella
• Femur

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