Lårbensalen

Lårbensalen, known scientifically as vastus medialis, is one of the four muscles that make up the quadriceps femoris group, located in the thigh. It originates from the femur, the thigh bone, and inserts into the patella, or kneecap. Its primary function is to extend the knee joint, meaning it straightens the leg. Additionally, the vastus medialis plays a crucial role in stabilizing the patella, ensuring it tracks properly within the femoral groove during knee movement.

This muscle is often described as the "teardrop" muscle due to its shape and location on the inner (medial) side of the thigh, just above the knee. It works in conjunction with the other quadriceps muscles – vastus lateralis, vastus intermedius, and rectus femoris – to perform powerful leg extension movements essential for activities like walking, running, jumping, and kicking. Weakness or dysfunction of the vastus medialis can lead to patellofemoral pain syndrome, instability of the kneecap, and a decreased ability to extend the knee fully. Rehabilitation exercises often focus on strengthening this specific muscle to improve knee health and function.