Muscle Breakdown: Vastus Intermedius
Table of Contents
What Is the Vastus Intermedius
The Vastus Intermedius is one of the four muscles that make up the powerful Quadriceps. It is located in-between the Vastus Medialis, and Vastus Lateralis, which also belong to the same muscle group. The Vastus Intermedius is deep to the Rectus Femoris, which is the fourth muscle of the Quadriceps.
Vastus Intermedius Muscle & Cadaver
Vastus Intermedius Function
Similar to the rest of the muscles of the Quadriceps, the Vastus Intermedius functions to extend the knee.
Vastus Intermedius Origin And Insertion
Vastus Intermedius Origin
The Vastus Intermedius originates from the anterior and lateral shaft of the femur.
Vastus Intermedius Insertion
The Vastus Intermedius inserts into the Quadriceps tendon along with the other muscles of the Quadriceps. From there, it continues to wrap around the patella, into the patellar tendon.
Vastus Intermedius Action
The Vastus Intermedius is involved in many movements such as,
Getting up from a seated position
Squatting
Lunging
Cycling
Walking
Many sports such as soccer and football
Any movement that requires extending the knee
Vastus Intermedius Location
The Vastus Intermedius is located in the middle of the front of the thigh. It is below the Rectus Femoris and in between the Vastus Medialis and the Vastus Lateralis.
Vastus Intermedius Pain
Pain in the Vastus Intermedius is often the result of a muscle strain. Unfortunately, because of the location of the Vastus Intermedius, it can be difficult to treat. Serious injury to the Vastus Intermedius may require surgery.
If you are experiencing pain in the middle region of the front of your thigh, you could have a muscle strain. Muscles strains are classified through a grading system of 1-3, from mild to severe. Symptoms may include bruising, swelling and pain. To treat a suspected muscle strain to the Vastus Intermedius, ice, heat, compression and rest are the best methods to return to play. Because the Vastus Intermedius is deep to the Rectus Femoris, you should consult your doctor to receive an exact diagnosis and detailed recovery plan.
Vastus Intermedius Exercises
Pulse Squat
Pulse Squat
A Pulse Squat is when you perform a regular squat, but only come up halfway before you continue to squat up and down repeatedly. You are remaining in a half squat position as you perform the movement.
Vastus Intermedius Stretch
There are many great ways to stretch the Vastus Intermedius. Some of these stretches include,
Side-Lying Quadriceps Stretch
Prone Quadriceps Stretch
Kneeling Quadriceps Stretch
Knee Extension Muscles
The muscles that extend the knee are all a part of the Quadriceps muscle group. These muscles include the Vastus Medius, Vastus Intermedius, Vastus Lateralis and Rectus Femoris. These muscles come together to form the Patellar Tendon which helps to extend the knee.
