Reisilihakset

Reisilihakset, commonly translated as thigh muscles, refer to the group of muscles located in the posterior and anterior compartments of the thigh. These muscles are crucial for locomotion, providing the power for walking, running, jumping, and maintaining posture. The thigh is divided into three compartments: anterior, posterior, and medial, each containing different muscle groups with distinct functions.

The anterior compartment primarily houses the quadriceps femoris, a powerful four-headed muscle responsible for extending the knee joint. These muscles include the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and vastus intermedius. The rectus femoris also assists in flexing the hip.

The posterior compartment contains the hamstring muscles, which are responsible for flexing the knee joint and extending the hip joint. The hamstring group consists of the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus. These muscles play a vital role in backward leg movement and stabilizing the knee.

The medial compartment of the thigh contains the adductor muscles, which are responsible for adducting the thigh, meaning bringing the legs towards the midline of the body. This group includes the adductor longus, adductor brevis, adductor magnus, gracilis, and pectineus. These muscles also contribute to hip flexion and rotation.

Overall, the coordinated action of the reisilihakset allows for a wide range of lower limb movements and is essential for daily activities. Their strength and flexibility are important for athletic performance and injury prevention.