Origin
Anterior and lateral surfaces of upper two-thirds of femur, lateral intermuscular septum, linea aspera, lateral supracondylar ridge
Insertion
Deep aspect of quadriceps tendon, then through patella to tibial tuberosity
Actions
Extends leg
Nerve
Femoral nerve (L2–L4)
Note
A few bundles of fibers from this muscle insert onto the upper part of the joint capsule of the knee. They probably draw the capsule superiorly during extension of the leg, preventing it from binding in the joint. Sometimes they are considered a different muscle and are called Articularis Genu (Articular muscle of the Knee).
