Audio LecturePro Feature Biceps Femoris 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The biceps femoris is a muscle within the posterior compartment of the thigh. It has two heads (long head and short head) and is the most lateral of the muscles in the posterior thigh. The common tendon of the two heads can be felt laterally within the popliteal fossa (posterior knee region). Attachments: Long head originates from the ischial tuberosity of the pelvis. Short head originates from the linea aspera on posterior surface of the femur. The two heads form a tendon which inserts onto the head of the fibula. Actions: Flexion and lateral rotation of the knee. Weak extensor and lateral rotator of the thigh. Innervation: Long head is innervated by the tibial part of the sciatic nerve Short head is innervated by the common fibular part of the sciatic nerve. Blood Supply: Profunda femoris artery By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1The muscles of the posterior thigh. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2Cross section of the thigh, showing the position of the major muscle groups. 3D ModelPro Feature You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Dissection AtlasPro Feature Prosection of the posterior compartment of the thigh. Prosection of the posterior compartment of the thigh. You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our Dissection Image Library Enhance your understanding with high-resolution dissection images showcasing real-life anatomy. Learn More In gratitude to our body donorsLearn more In gratitude to our body donors We are deeply grateful to the individuals who chose to donate their bodies for the advancement of medical education. Their generosity makes these images possible and provides students and healthcare professionals with an invaluable opportunity to study human anatomy. We recognise the profound contribution made by each donor and their families, and we use these images with the dignity and respect their gift deserves. Acknowledge Frequent questions What is the biceps femoris muscle? The biceps femoris is a muscle located in the posterior compartment of the thigh, characterised by two heads: the long head and the short head. It is the most lateral muscle in this region and plays a key role in knee movement. What are the attachments of the biceps femoris? The long head of the biceps femoris originates from the ischial tuberosity of the pelvis, while the short head originates from the linea aspera on the femur's posterior surface. Both heads converge to form a tendon that inserts onto the head of the fibula. What actions does the biceps femoris perform? The biceps femoris facilitates flexion and lateral rotation of the knee, and it also acts as a weak extensor and lateral rotator of the thigh. Its actions are important for movements such as walking and running. How is the biceps femoris innervated? The long head of the biceps femoris is innervated by the tibial part of the sciatic nerve, while the short head receives innervation from the common fibular part of the sciatic nerve. This dual innervation is crucial for its function. What is the blood supply to the biceps femoris? The biceps femoris receives its blood supply from the profunda femoris artery. This vascularisation ensures the muscle has the necessary nutrients and oxygen for optimal performance. Rate This Article