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Vastus medialis

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Thigh Muscles Study Sheet

Vastus medialis

The vastus medialis muscle is often referred to as the “teardrop” muscle.

Anatomy of anterior thigh muscles showing Sartorius, Adductor longus, Gracilis, Vastus medialis.
Anatomy of anterior thigh muscles showing Sartorius, Adductor longus, Gracilis, Vastus medialis.

Vastus medialis Origin

The vastus medialis originates from the lower part of the femur. It specifically comes from the intertrochanteric line and the upper part of the linea aspera. The muscle fibers extend downwards along the femoral shaft.

Vastus medialis Insertion

The vastus medialis inserts into the patella (kneecap) via the quadriceps tendon. From the patella, the quadriceps tendon continues as the patellar ligament. This ligament inserts into the tibial tuberosity on the anterior surface of the tibia.

Vastus medialis Actions

Knee Extension

Stabilization of the Patella

Vastus Lateralis muscle anatomy, part of the quadriceps group extending the leg at the knee.
Vastus Lateralis muscle anatomy, part of the quadriceps group extending the leg at the knee.
Photography, text, and labels by Rob Swatski, Assistant Professor of Biology, Harrisburg Area Community College – York Campus, York, PA.
An anatomical model shows the quadriceps muscle group, with a focus on the vastus medialis. The vastus medialis muscle is shown in red, and an arrow points to its location on the lower part of the thigh, near the knee. The image shows that the vastus medialis extends the leg at the knee and is part of the quadriceps group. The visual layout emphasizes the structure and placement of the vastus medialis muscle within the thigh's muscular anatomy.
An anatomical model shows the quadriceps muscle group, with a focus on the vastus medialis.
Photography, text, and labels by Rob Swatski, Assistant Professor of Biology, Harrisburg Area Community College – York Campus, York, PA.

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