Vastus Medialis - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The vastus medialis is a muscle in the anterior compartment of the thigh. It forms part of the quadriceps femoris muscle complex. Attachments: Originates from the intertrochanteric line and medial lip of the 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: Femoral artery and deep 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 medialis muscle? The vastus medialis 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 extending the knee joint and stabilising the patella. Where does the vastus medialis originate and insert? The vastus medialis originates from the intertrochanteric line and the medial lip of the linea aspera of the femur, and it inserts onto the patella via the quadriceps femoris tendon. This connection is essential for knee extension. What are the primary actions of the vastus medialis? The primary action of the vastus medialis is to extend the knee joint. Additionally, it helps stabilise the patella during movement, contributing to knee joint integrity. Which nerve innervates the vastus medialis? The vastus medialis is innervated by the femoral nerve. This innervation is vital for its motor function in knee extension. What is the blood supply to the vastus medialis? The blood supply to the vastus medialis comes from the femoral artery and the deep femoral artery. This vascularisation is important for muscle health and function. Rate This Article