Step 8: Thigh Muscles

The Tensor fasciae latae originates from the crest of the ilium and inserts over the tibia.

The Gluteus medius is parallel to the spine and acts to extend the hip and abduct the thigh. This muscle is much larger than the Gluteus maximus on the fetal pig.

Fun Fact: On humans the size of these muscles are switched; meaning that the Gluteus maximus is much larger than the Gluteus medius.

 The Biceps femoris is very larger and originated from the pelvis, inserts along the tibia. It helps to flex the knee joint and it is located where you would think the Gluteus maximus would be on a human. Make sure you find the break between this muscle and the Gluteus maximus (which is superior to the Biceps femoris).

When viewing the lateral view of the thigh, you are able to identify the Vastus lateralis and the Rectus femoris. They appear to be one single muscle, however there is a break that separates them.

 The Rectus femoris is thick and can be seen in both the lateral view and medial view of the thigh. It originates from the ilium and inserts in the tibia.

The Vastus lateralis is originates from the lateral surface of the femur. This muscle works with the other upper thigh muscles to extend the lower leg and the knee joint.

The Rectus femoris is the thick muscle above the
blunt probe. The Vastus lateralis is in between the
blunt probe and the tweezers.

Here are all of the upper thigh muscles from a lateral view

Here is a video showing the Lateral view of the thigh!