Quadriceps femoris

Musculus quadriceps femoris

A large four-headed muscle group of the anterior thigh consisting of the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and vastus intermedius. All four heads converge on the quadriceps tendon, which encloses the patella and continues as the patellar ligament to the tibial tuberosity.

Type Muscle
Body System Muscular
Body Region Thigh
Parent Structure hindlimb muscle
Latin Name Musculus quadriceps femoris
FMA ID 22428

Function

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

Quadriceps tendon rupture prevents active knee extension. Vastus medialis oblique weakness contributes to patellar maltracking. Quadriceps atrophy commonly follows knee injuries and surgeries.

Sub-structures

rectus femoris Bone vastus intermedius Bone vastus lateralis Bone vastus medialis Muscle

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Quadriceps femoris?
A large four-headed muscle group of the anterior thigh consisting of the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and vastus intermedius. All four heads converge on the quadriceps tendon, which encloses the patella and continues as the patellar ligament to the tibial tuberosity.
What is the function of the Quadriceps femoris?
The most powerful extensor of the knee joint. Essential for standing, walking, climbing stairs, and running. The rectus femoris also flexes the hip.
What body system is the Quadriceps femoris part of?
The Quadriceps femoris is part of the Muscular.
What conditions affect the Quadriceps femoris?
Quadriceps tendon rupture prevents active knee extension. Vastus medialis oblique weakness contributes to patellar maltracking. Quadriceps atrophy commonly follows knee injuries and surgeries.
Where is the Quadriceps femoris located?
The Quadriceps femoris is located in the Thigh region of the body.

Related Structures

anterior internodal tract anterior internodal fasciculus aponeurosis aponeuroses atrioventricular node A-V node Bachmann's bundle anterior interatrial band Biceps brachii Musculus biceps brachii bundle of His A-V bundle cardiac muscle tissue of myocardium cardiac Purkinje fiber cardiac Purkinje fiber

Medical Disclaimer

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