What does rectus femoris do?

Function

The rectus femoris muscle is involved in a number of movements of the hip and knee joints, including:

* Hip flexion: The rectus femoris is the primary flexor of the hip joint. This means that it is responsible for bringing the thigh forward towards the body.

* Knee extension: The rectus femoris also helps to extend the knee joint. This means that it is responsible for straightening the leg.

* Hip adduction: The rectus femoris also contributes to hip adduction, which is the movement of the thigh toward the midline of the body.

Innervation

The rectus femoris muscle is innervated by the femoral nerve.

Blood supply

The rectus femoris muscle is supplied by the femoral artery.

Clinical significance

The rectus femoris muscle is commonly involved in a number of injuries, including:

* Tendonitis: This is an inflammation of the tendon that attaches the rectus femoris muscle to the kneecap.

* Muscle strain: This is a tear in the rectus femoris muscle.

* Patellar tendon rupture: This is a complete tear of the tendon that attaches the rectus femoris muscle to the kneecap.

These injuries can cause pain, stiffness, and weakness in the hip and knee joints. Treatment may include rest, ice, compression, elevation, and physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.