Before entering fully into the meaning of the term quadriceps, we have to proceed to discover its etymological origin. In this case, we can state that it is a word that derives from Latin and that it is the result of the sum of two clearly defined components:
-The term “quattor”, which can be translated as “four”.
-The noun “caput”, which is synonymous with “head”.
Therefore, it literally means “four heads” and, therefore, “muscle that is located in the anterior part of the thigh and that is made up of four parts”.
Quadriceps is the name of the muscle found in the anterior sector of the thigh, acting in the flexion of it on the pelvis and in the extension of the leg.
This powerful muscle makes it possible for a person to walk, run, jump or sit, for example. It also allows an individual to walk down a ladder or up an incline, among other movements.
- Abbreviationfinder: Find definitions of English word – School. Commonly used abbreviations related to word are also included.
The four heads of the quadriceps are the vastus intermedius, vastus medialis, vastus lateralis, and rectus femoris. These portions allow it to exert functions on the knee and on the hip joint.
The quadriceps is supplied by a branch of the femoral artery and innervated by the femoral nerve. Its four heads unite at the so-called quadriceps tendon, which inserts into the patella.
In addition to all of the above, we cannot ignore other interesting data about the quadriceps, such as the following:
-It is the most powerful muscle in the entire body.
-It is essential to perform exercises to keep the quadriceps in good shape given the important set of functions it performs. And it is that thanks to that it will be possible to have more speed and strength in the legs, that there is a greater amplitude of movement in those extremities, that there is more power in those…
-In the same way, we cannot overlook the fact that exercising this muscle that concerns us means enjoying another series of relevant advantages. We are referring to improving metabolism, burning body fat, better protecting bones, defining the body, strengthening the immune system…
-It is considered, in addition to what is indicated, that it is the most voluminous muscle that can be found in the human body.
The muscle can be affected by various disorders that lead to mobility problems. A sedentary subject, or who must remain in bed due to some type of illness or injury, progressively loses the volume of the quadriceps. That is why it is essential to keep the muscle active.
Another drawback that can arise with the quadriceps is that its four portions develop unequally. If one of the portions is stronger than the rest, the pull it puts on the knee will be different. This can cause a displacement of the patella that results in pain when walking.
