Quadriceps Femoris - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The quadriceps femoris is a muscle complex in the anterior compartment of the thigh. It consists of four individual muscles – vastus lateralis, vastus intermedius, vastus medialis and the rectus femoris. Attachments: Arises from the anterior superior iliac spine, the ilium, and the femur. The fibres converge into a thick tendon, which inserts onto the base of the patella. It inserts onto the patella via the quadriceps femoris tendon. The patella is then attached to the tibial tuberosity by the patella ligament. Actions: Extension of the knee joint. Contributes to flexion at the hip joint through the action of the rectus femoris. Innervation: Femoral nerve. Blood Supply: Femoral artery. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1The muscles of the anterior thigh. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2The femur, tibia and patella of the knee joint. Pro Feature - 3D Model 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 Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas 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 Frequent questions What is the quadriceps femoris? The quadriceps femoris is a muscle group located in the anterior thigh, comprising four muscles: vastus lateralis, vastus intermedius, vastus medialis, and rectus femoris. This muscle complex plays a crucial role in knee extension and hip flexion. What are the attachments of the quadriceps femoris? The quadriceps femoris attaches to the anterior superior iliac spine, ilium, and femur. Its fibres converge into a tendon that inserts onto the base of the patella, which is further connected to the tibial tuberosity by the patellar ligament. What actions does the quadriceps femoris perform? The primary action of the quadriceps femoris is the extension of the knee joint. Additionally, the rectus femoris component helps in flexing the hip joint. Which nerve innervates the quadriceps femoris? The quadriceps femoris is innervated by the femoral nerve. This nerve supplies the muscle with the necessary signals for contraction and movement. What is the blood supply for the quadriceps femoris? The quadriceps femoris receives its blood supply from the femoral artery. This ensures that the muscle is adequately perfused to support its functions during physical activity. Rate This Article