Vastus Lateralis - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The vastus lateralis is a muscle in the anterior compartment of the thigh. It forms part of the quadriceps femoris muscle complex. Attachments: Originates from the greater trochanter and the lateral lip of linea aspera of the femur. 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. It has a secondary function of stabilising the patella. Innervation: Femoral nerve. Blood supply: Lateral circumflex femoral artery. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1The muscles of the anterior thigh. 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 Frequent questions What is the vastus lateralis? The vastus lateralis is a muscle located in the anterior compartment of the thigh and is part of the quadriceps femoris muscle group. It plays a crucial role in knee extension and stabilising the patella. Where does the vastus lateralis originate and insert? This muscle originates from the greater trochanter and the lateral lip of the linea aspera of the femur. It inserts onto the patella through the quadriceps femoris tendon, which connects to the tibial tuberosity via the patella ligament. What are the primary actions of the vastus lateralis? The primary action of the vastus lateralis is to extend the knee joint. Additionally, it assists in stabilising the patella during movement. Which nerve innervates the vastus lateralis? The vastus lateralis is innervated by the femoral nerve, which is responsible for providing motor function to this muscle. What is the blood supply to the vastus lateralis? The blood supply to the vastus lateralis comes from the lateral circumflex femoral artery, ensuring adequate oxygen and nutrients for muscle function. Rate This Article