Quadriceps

is not shown as it is deep to rectus femoris muscle) Parts The quadriceps femoris muscle is subdivided into four separate muscles (the 'heads'), with the first superficial to the other three over the femur (from the trochanters to the condyles): • The rectus femoris muscle occupies the middle of the thigh, covering most of the other three quadriceps muscles. It originates on the ilium. It is named for its straight course. • The vastus lateralis muscle is on the lateral side of the femur (i.e., on the outer side of the thigh). While this muscle has a variable presentation, it consistently originates at the proximal femur, runs between the vastus lateralis and vastus intermedius muscles, and inserts distally at the medial aspect of the patellar base. ==Function==

All four quadriceps are powerful extensors of the knee joint. ==Clinical significance==

The quadriceps femoris muscle is a target for manual therapy and physical therapy from repetitive strain injuries, such as from skiing. The quadriceps femoris muscle is the most common site of myositis ossificans. ==Society and culture==

Training In strength training, the quadriceps are trained by several leg exercises including the squat, leg press, and leg extension. ==Etymology==

The proper Latin plural form of the adjective quadri would be quadricipites. In modern English usage, quadriceps is used in both the singular and plural form. The singular form quadricep, produced by back-formation, is frequently used. ==Additional images==

File:Knee diagram.svg|The quadriceps tendon connects to the top part of the kneecap (patella) File:Gray432 color.png|Cross-section through the middle of the thigh File:Gray1238.png|The quadriceps forms the bulk of front part of the thigh ==See also==