vastus lateralis (vastus externus)

Introduction

Lateral head of the quadriceps femoris.

Origin

• lateral lip of the linea aspera (femur)

Insertion

• via common tendon of the quadriceps femoris to the patella & by the patellar ligament to the tibial tuberosity

Action

extends leg

Innervation

femoral nerve

More general terms

• skeletal muscle (voluntary muscle)

Component of

• quadriceps femoris