Musculus quadriceps femoris -- vastus lateralis
The lateral component of the quadriceps group. Extends the stifle and is part of the major anti-gravity muscle group of the hindlimb.
Origin: Lateral surface of the proximal femur
Insertion: Lateral patellar ligament and tibial tuberosity
Action: Extends the stifle (knee)
Innervation: Femoral nerve (L4-L5)
High-demand activities like racing, jumping, and steep hill work can strain the quadriceps, particularly in unfit horses.
High-demand activities like racing, jumping, and steep hill work can strain the quadriceps, particularly in unfit horses. Signs include: Shortened hindlimb stride; reluctance to extend the stifle; difficulty going downhill; swelling over the anterior thigh; pain on palpation of the quadriceps mass.
See the Vastus Lateralis on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model