MuscleThigh — anterior (quadriceps)
Vastus lateralis
Latin: M. vastus lateralis sinistra
Location: Thigh
Paired structure: one on the left and one on the right side of the body.
View the vastus lateralis in 3DOrigin
Greater trochanter and linea aspera of the femur (lateral lip).
Insertion
Lateral border of the patella and tibial tuberosity via the quadriceps tendon.
Action
Extends the knee; the largest quadriceps head contributes most raw extension force.
Nerve supply
Femoral nerve (L2–L4).
Blood supply
Profunda femoris perforating branches.
Clinical relevance
It is the preferred paediatric IM injection site of the thigh; its fascial sheath tightens in quadriceps compartment syndrome after femoral fractures.
Educational anatomy reference, not medical advice. About this content.