Muscles of the Lower Limb

Overview

Lower limb muscles support posture, propulsion and fine control of the foot. This section covers the major muscle groups that enable standing, walking and running.

Key Structures

Topics include gluteal muscles, thigh compartments, leg compartments and intrinsic foot muscles. Each article outlines attachments, functions and innervation in a clear, structured format.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Understanding muscular anatomy assists in assessing gait abnormalities, nerve injuries and compartment syndromes. The section links muscle groups to movement patterns and clinical examination.

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Ovoid hiatus of the fascia lata diagram.

The Fascia Lata

Illustration of the superficial muscles of the gluteal region, showing the gluteus maximus and medius partially removed.

The Gluteal Region

Cross-section diagram of the anterior thigh muscles, excluding the iliopsoas and pectineus, highlighting muscle anatomy.

The Thigh

  • Medial Compartment
  • Anterior Compartment
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Illustration of the superficial layer muscles in the posterior leg, showing the gastrocnemius with part of its body removed to reveal underlying muscles.

The Leg

  • Posterior Compartment
  • Anterior Compartment
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Illustration of the dorsal layer of foot muscles, including the extensor digitorum brevis and extensor hallucis brevis.

The Foot

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Illustration of the course of the long thoracic nerve.
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Lateral view of the infrahyoid muscles in the neck, showcasing the omohyoid, sternohyoid, sternothyroid, and thyrohyoid muscles.
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