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Vastus Lateralis

Region

Origin & Insertion

['Origin: Greater trochanter, linea aspera', 'Insertion: Tibial tuberosity via patellar tendon']

Synergistic Muscles

['Vastus medialis', 'Rectus femoris']

Joints

['Knee']

Primary Actions

['Knee extension']

Nerve & Spinal Segment

Femoral nerve

Lumbar plexus; L2–L4

Interesting

Largest quad muscle. [Moore's]

Reversal of Action

Push trunk upward during sit-to-stand

Common Dysfunctions

Lateral patellar tracking, knee pain with squatting

How to Stretch

Quad stretch with hip adduction.

Trigger Points

How to Strengthen

Leg press, wall sits.

Concentric Action

Extend knee

Applications:

Patellar tracking influence; used in fall prevention programs

Eccentric Action

Lower from extended knee slowly

Isotonic Action

Squats, leg press

Related Conditions

['Lateral knee pain', 'ITB syndrome']

Isometric Action

Hold wall sit or squat position

Exercise Ideas

['Lunges', 'Step-ups', 'Leg extension']

Related Blogs

Images

Videos

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