Vastus Medialis – Functional Anatomy

Overview of Anatomy

The functional anatomy of the vastus medialis is a bit more complicated than the other vasti muscles. It has two distinct sections; vastus medialis longus and vastus medialis obliquus.

Origin

Vastus Medialis Longus

• intertrochanteric line
• spiral line of the linea aspera
• medial intermuscular septum

Vastus Medialis Obliquus

• tendon/aponeurosis of adductor magnus

Insertion

• medial aspect of the patella and, eventually, the tibial tuberosity of the tibia via the patellar ligament

Function

• extension of the knee
• balance patellar movement

Nerve

• the femoral nerve of the lumbar plexus (L2-L4)

Functional Considerations

Patella Femoral Syndrome became a more prevalent diagnosis, based on some studies in the 90s. Although the underlying causes remain unclear, this 2018 study finds that variations in the vastus medialis longus are strongly connected to subjects with pain.

Anomalies, Etc.

Studies vary in their findings of anatomical variations, primarily around vastus medialis obliquus. Some studies find it to have two layers and other studies strongly refute those findings.

Obliquus, Separate?

The vastus medialis longus and obliquus are largely considered anatomically and functionally separate. They have different fiber directions and separate origin points. Additionally, studies refute the idea that obliquus and longus are anatomically or functionally separate.

From a bodyworker’s standpoint, this is interesting. When the trigger point in the vastus medialis is very active, I have been able to elicit its referral with a stretch of the adductors. Then, I released the vastus medialis with a quick stroke of ice. It changed in palpable tone, and the adductor stretch didn’t create the referral.

Articles like this one have great photos of the fiber direction. Additionally, it shows the involvement of the medial patellar femoral ligament. Additionally, studies like this one discuss the architecture and function of the muscle.

Support Integrative Works to
stay independent
and produce great content.

You can subscribe to our community on Patreon. You will get links to free content and access to exclusive content not seen on this site. In addition, we will be posting anatomy illustrations, treatment notes, and sections from our manuals not found on this site. Thank you so much for being so supportive.

If you don’t care to subscribe, you can donate.

Cranio Cradle Cup

This mug has classic, colorful illustrations of the craniosacral system and vault hold #3. It makes a great gift and conversation piece.