Muscle
Vastus medialis
Stabilises the patella (VMO)
High-yield
VMO fibres prevent lateral patellar dislocation; key in patellofemoral rehab. Femoral nerve.
Overview
The medial quadriceps whose lowest oblique fibres (VMO) resist lateral patellar tracking and extend the terminal knee.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Intertrochanteric line and medial lip of the linea aspera of the femur
- Insertion
- Base of the patella and tibial tuberosity via the quadriceps/patellar tendon
- Action
- Extends the knee; VMO stabilises the patella medially
- Innervation
- Femoral nerve (L2, L3, L4)
- Blood supply
- Femoral / descending genicular arteries
Frequently asked questions
What does the vastus medialis do?
The vastus medialis extends the knee; VMO stabilises the patella medially.
What nerve innervates the vastus medialis?
The vastus medialis is innervated by the femoral nerve (L2, L3, L4).
Where does the vastus medialis attach?
The vastus medialis originates from the intertrochanteric line and medial lip of the linea aspera of the femur and inserts on the base of the patella and tibial tuberosity via the quadriceps/patellar tendon.
What is the blood supply of the vastus medialis?
The vastus medialis is supplied by the femoral / descending genicular arteries.