Atlas (C1) vs Quadriceps femoris
| Property | Atlas (C1) | Quadriceps femoris |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Full structure pages
Atlas (C1)
Atlas
Ring-shaped and unusual in lacking both a vertebral body and a spinous process, the atlas is the first cervical vertebra and supports the skull. Its structure consists of anterior and posterior arches joined by two …
Quadriceps femoris
Musculus quadriceps femoris
A four-headed muscle group of the anterior thigh, the quadriceps femoris is the most powerful extensor of the knee and is central to standing, walking, climbing stairs, and running. Its four heads, the rectus femoris, …