Where Is the Vastus lateralis?
Runs down the middle somewhat outside of the upper leg down past the outside of the knee into the tibia bone. It has a bow shape outward.
What are the Symptoms of a Vastus lateralis Tear or Strain?
Swelling or pain over the front and outer aspect of his knee of outer leg.
This muscle when too tight can pull the knee cap out when it slides uo and down the knee.
What is The Function of the Vastus lateralis?
The Vastus lateralis straightens the knee from a bent knee position. It is one of the muscles used for walking and running.
This muscle helps extend the knee (straighten from a bent knee position).
It locks the knee straight when the knee is fully extended.
Controls the knee in the outer part.
Helps hold the kneecap in it's groove.
Origin and Insertion of Vastus lateralis
Origin:
Greater trochanter (Top of the Femur), Intertrochanteric line, and Linea aspera of the Femur
Insertion:
Lateral base of patella; lateral patellar retinaculum and lateral part of quadriceps femoris tendon
