Biceps femoris muscle

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== Biceps Femoris Muscle ==

The Biceps Femoris Muscle is a muscle of the thigh located to the posterior, or back. It is part of the hamstring group, which also includes the semitendinosus and semimembranosus muscles. The biceps femoris muscle has two parts: the long head and the short head.

Anatomy

Long Head

The long head of the biceps femoris originates from the ischial tuberosity of the pelvis. It runs down the thigh and inserts into the head of the fibula.

Short Head

The short head of the biceps femoris originates from the linea aspera on the posterior surface of the femur. It also inserts into the head of the fibula, joining the long head.

Innervation

The long head of the biceps femoris is innervated by the tibial nerve, a branch of the sciatic nerve. The short head is innervated by the common fibular nerve, another branch of the sciatic nerve.

Function

The primary function of the biceps femoris muscle is to flex the knee and extend the hip joint. It also plays a role in the lateral rotation of the knee when it is flexed.

Blood Supply

The biceps femoris muscle receives its blood supply from the profunda femoris artery, a branch of the femoral artery.

Clinical Significance

Injuries to the biceps femoris muscle are common in athletes, particularly those involved in sports that require rapid acceleration and deceleration, such as soccer, football, and track and field. Strains and tears can occur, often requiring rest, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgical intervention.

Related Pages

• Hamstring
• Semitendinosus
• Semimembranosus
• Ischial tuberosity
• Linea aspera
• Tibial nerve
• Common fibular nerve
• Profunda femoris artery
• Femoral artery
• Knee
• Hip joint