Semimembranosus

Semimembranosus is the most medial of the three hamstring muscles. Chronically tight hamstrings are often a contributary factor to lower back pain and knee pain.

 

Origin

  • Ischial tuberosity.  

Insertion

  •   Posterior part of the medial condyle of the tibia.

Actions

  • Hip extension.  
  • Knee flexion.
  •   Internal rotation of the hip when the knee is flexed.  

Innervation

  • Tibial part of the sciatic nerve.  

Daily uses

  • Bending the knee to step over something.  

Example strengthening exercises

  • Knee curl machine.  
  • Hip extension using a resistance band.  

Example stretches

  • Sitting hamstring stretch.
  •   Standing hamstring stretch.  
  • Partner hamstring stretch.  

Related injuries

  • Hamstring strains.  
  • Hamstring tendinitis.

Related muscles

  • Semitendinosus.  
  • Biceps femoris.