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Semimembranosus

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Original Author(s): Oliver Jones
Last updated: October 24, 2022
Revisions: 5

Original Author(s): Oliver Jones
Last updated: October 24, 2022
Revisions: 5

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The semimembranosus is a muscle within the posterior compartment of the thigh. It is located deep to the semitendinosus muscle within the medial aspect of the posterior thigh.

  • Attachments: Originates from the ischial tuberosity (more superiorly than the origin of the semitendinosus and biceps femoris). Attaches to the medial tibial condyle.
  • Actions: Flexion of the leg at the knee joint. Extension of thigh at the hip. Medially rotates the thigh at the hip joint and the leg at the knee joint.
  • Innervation: Tibial part of the sciatic nerve.
  • Blood Supply: Profunda femoris artery.

Fig 1 – The muscles of the posterior thigh.

Fig 2 – Cross section of the thigh, showing the position of the major muscle groups.