| Latin Name |
Atlas |
Musculus quadriceps femoris |
| Type |
Bone |
Muscle |
| Body System |
Skeletal |
Muscular |
| Body Region |
Spine |
Thigh |
| Function |
The first cervical vertebra that supports the skull. Allows nodding movements (flexion and extension) of the head at the atlanto-occipital joint. |
The most powerful extensor of the knee joint. Essential for standing, walking, climbing stairs, and running. The rectus femoris also flexes the hip. |
| Clinical Significance |
Jefferson fractures (burst fractures of the atlas) result from axial loading. Atlanto-occipital dislocation is usually fatal. Congenital anomalies include atlas assimilation (occipitalization). |
Quadriceps tendon rupture prevents active knee extension. Vastus medialis oblique weakness contributes to patellar maltracking. Quadriceps atrophy commonly follows knee injuries and surgeries. |
| FMA ID |
12519 |
22428 |