Vastus Lateralis
Vastus Lateralis is the most lateral (outer) of the four quadriceps muscles and is felt on the outside top of the thigh.
Origin
- Outer surface of the greater trochanter of the femur.
- Upper half of the linea aspera.
Insertion
- Patella via the quadriceps tendon and then the tibial tuberosity via the patella tendon.
Actions
- Knee extension.
Innervation
- Femoral nerve.
Daily uses
- Cycling.
- Walking up stairs.
Example strengthening exercises
- Knee extension machine.
- Leg press machine.
- Squats.
Example stretches
- Standing quad stretch.
- Laying quad stretch.
Related injuries
- Quad strain Contusion.
Related muscles
- Vastus medialis.
- Vastus intermedius.
- Rectus femoris.
