Quadriceps femoris

The Quadriceps femoris (/kwɒˈdrɪsɛps ˈfɛmərɪs/), often simply referred to as the quadriceps, is a large muscle group that includes the four prevailing muscles on the front of the thigh.

Etymology

The term "quadriceps" is derived from the Latin words quattuor and caput, meaning "four" and "head", respectively. The term "femoris" is Latin for "of the thigh".

Anatomy

The quadriceps femoris is composed of four individual muscles: the Rectus femoris, Vastus lateralis, Vastus medialis, and Vastus intermedius. Each muscle originates on the femur bone and collectively they insert into the patella, or kneecap, via the quadriceps tendon.

Function

The primary function of the quadriceps femoris is to extend the knee, but it also plays a role in hip flexion due to the position of the rectus femoris.

Related Terms

Rectus femoris: One of the four quadriceps muscles, it is the only one that crosses the hip joint and thus contributes to hip flexion.
Vastus lateralis: The largest and most powerful part of the quadriceps femoris, located on the lateral side of the thigh.
Vastus medialis: A part of the quadriceps femoris, located on the medial side of the thigh.
Vastus intermedius: The deepest part of the quadriceps femoris, located between the vastus lateralis and vastus medialis.
Patella: The kneecap, where the quadriceps muscles insert via the quadriceps tendon.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Quadriceps femoris
Wikipedia's article - Quadriceps femoris

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Quadriceps femoris