Pectineus: Anatomy and Function
The pectineus is a flat, quadrangular muscle located in the anterior part of the upper and medial aspect of the thigh. It plays a vital role in hip flexion and adduction, and it is one of the muscles in the adductor group.
Anatomy
The pectineus muscle is innervated by the femoral nerve and occasionally by the obturator nerve. It originates from the pectineal line of the pubis and the adjacent part of the superior ramus of the pubis. The muscle inserts into the pectineal line of the femur, just below the lesser trochanter.
Function
The primary functions of the pectineus muscle are hip flexion and adduction. It also assists in medial rotation of the thigh. This muscle is important for movements such as walking, running, and moving the leg toward the body’s midline.
Clinical Relevance
The pectineus muscle plays a key role in the stability and movement of the hip joint. Weakness or injury in this muscle can lead to hip pain, reduced range of motion, and difficulty in performing activities that involve hip flexion and adduction. Conditions such as pectineus muscle strain or tendinopathy can occur due to overuse or acute injury.
Further Reading
For more information on stretching, training methods, and the latest updates on thigh muscles, visit the following blog:
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