Vastus Lateralis
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Description[edit | edit source]
The vastus lateralis muscle is on the side of the thigh. This muscle is the largest of the quadriceps group (often called quads) which also includes the rectus femoris, the vastus intermedius, and the vastus medialis. Taken together, the muscles of the legs allow strength and stability. They provide power for and absorb the impact of daily activities such as walking, running, and jumping.[1]
Anatomy[edit | edit source]
The vastus lateralis is an anterior muscle of the thigh, part of the quadriceps femoris group.
Origin[edit | edit source]
Upper intertrochanteric line, base of greater trochanter, lateral linea aspera, lateral supracondylar ridge and lateral intermuscular septum
Insertion[edit | edit source]
Lateral quadriceps tendon to patella, via ligamentum patellae into tubercle of tibia[2]
Nerve Supply[edit | edit source]
Posterior division of femoral nerve (L3,4)
Blood Supply[edit | edit source]
Lateral circumflex femoral artery [3]
Function[edit | edit source]
Actions[edit | edit source]
extension at knee
can abnormally displaced patella
[edit | edit source]
Techniques[edit | edit source]
Palpation[edit | edit source]
have client supine
place palpating hand distal to greater trochanter
ask the client to contract quadriceps femoris group
continute palpating distally towards patella
Length Tension Testing / Stretching[edit | edit source]
Trigger Point Referral Pattern[edit | edit source]
Recent Related Research (from Pubmed)[edit | edit source]
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Resources[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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