Vastus Medialis Muscle

Author: Scott A. Sheffield MS

Last update:

The vastus medialis is a fan-shaped muscle located in the anteromedial part of the thigh and part of the quadriceps femoris.

image descriptionVastus Medialis Muscle

An image showing the lower limb muscles (Pectineus, Iliacus, Psoas major, Adductor longus, Rectus femoris, Vastus lateralis) which are covering the Vastus Medialis Muscle
An image showing the Vastus Medialis Muscle (highlighted) attached to the lower limb along with other muscles (Pectineus, Adductor longus, Vastus lateralis and Gracilis)
An image showing the Vastus Medialis Muscle (highlighted) attached to the lower limb along with other muscles (Adductor brevis, Adductor magnus and Gracilis)
An image showing the Vastus Medialis Muscle attached to the lower limb
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image descriptionAttachments of Vastus Medialis Muscle: Origin & Insertion

Origin: (proximal attachments):
Intertrochanteric line. It also attaches to the medial lip of linea aspera of femur.

Insertion: (distal attachments):
Quadriceps tendon to base of patella and onto tibial tuberosity via the patellar ligament.

An image showing the lower limb muscles (Pectineus, Iliacus, Psoas major, Adductor longus, Rectus femoris, Vastus lateralis) which are covering the Vastus Medialis Muscle
An image showing the Vastus Medialis Muscle attached to the lower limb
An image showing the Origin and Insertion of the Vastus Medialis Muscle on the lower limb
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Actions on the leg (tibia & fibula):

image descriptionExtends leg at knee; (part of quadriceps group).

Did you know that muscle anatomy is easier to learn in 3D? Learn vastus medialis anatomy faster with these 3d muscle anatomy videos.

Nerve to Muscle and its Spinal Segment:

Femoral nerve (L2-L4).

Test yourself:

Muscles That Act On The Anterior Leg (From The Thigh)

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