Musculus vastus medialis, commonly referred to as the vastus medialis or VM, is a specific muscle located in the thigh. It is one of the four quad muscles, along with the vastus lateralis, vastus intermedius, and rectus femoris, that make up the quadriceps femoris muscle group. The vastus medialis is positioned along the inner side, or medial aspect, of the thigh.
Anatomically, the musculus vastus medialis originates from the femur's intertrochanteric line and the spiral line. It then continues to attach to the medial border of the patella, or kneecap, through the quadriceps tendon. From there, the muscle inserts into the tibial tuberosity through the patellar ligament.
The primary function of the vastus medialis is knee extension, meaning it is responsible for straightening the leg at the knee joint. Additionally, this muscle presence plays a significant role in providing stability to the knee joint during movements such as walking, running, and jumping. The vastus medialis also assists in controlling the tilt of the patella, which helps maintain proper alignment of the knee joint.
As with other muscles, the vastus medialis can be targeted and strengthened through exercises such as squats, lunges, leg presses, and other lower body exercises. Building strength in this muscle is important for improving overall lower limb strength, stability, and joint health.
