V M O Muscle - The vastus medialis obliquus
 |
| V M O Muscle |
The vastus medialis obliquus (VMO) is one of the four muscles that make up the quadriceps group, located on the front of the thigh. It is the deepest of the four quadriceps muscles and lies beneath the vastus lateralis, vastus intermedius, and rectus femoris.
The VMO originates from the medial intermuscular septum and inserts into the quadriceps tendon just below the patella.
Anatomy
The vastus medialis obliquus (VMO) is a teardrop-shaped muscle that lies beneath the vastus lateralis, vastus intermedius, and rectus femoris muscles on the front of the thigh. It is the deepest of the four quadriceps muscles and is situated at the medial (inner) aspect of the thigh.
The VMO originates from three main areas:
Medial intermuscular septum: A fibrous partition that separates the VMO from the adductor magnus muscle, which lies deeper.
Medial lip of the linea aspera: A prominent ridge on the posterior surface of the femur (thigh bone).
Medial supracondylar line: A bony prominence just above the knee joint.
The VMO fibers run obliquely downward and medially, attaching to the medial border of the patella (kneecap) and the knee joint capsule. These fibers also contribute to the formation of the quadriceps tendon, which extends from the quadriceps muscles to the tibial tuberosity (shin bone) just below the knee joint.
Function of V M O Muscle
The VMO plays a crucial role in several important knee joint functions:
Knee extension: The VMO is the primary muscle responsible for extending the knee joint, working in conjunction with the other quadriceps muscles.
Patellar stability: The VMO's oblique orientation helps to guide the patella along the groove in the femur during knee extension, preventing it from tracking abnormally (patellar maltracking).
Knee joint proprioception: The VMO contributes to proprioception, which is the sense of body position and movement in space. This proprioception is essential for maintaining balance and coordination during movement.
Clinical Significance
A weak or dysfunctional VMO can contribute to various knee joint problems, including:
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS): PFPS is a common cause of pain around the patella, often related to patellar maltracking. Strengthening the VMO is a key component of PFPS rehabilitation.
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury: A strong VMO can help to stabilize the knee joint and reduce the risk of ACL injury, especially during sports that involve sudden changes in direction or landing from jumps.
Patellar tendinitis: Patellar tendinitis is an inflammation of the patellar tendon, often caused by overuse or repetitive strain. Strengthening the VMO can help to reduce stress on the patellar tendon.
Strengthening Exercises of V M O Muscle
Several exercises can effectively strengthen the VMO muscle:
Leg extensions: This exercise targets the quadriceps muscles, including the VMO. Sit on a leg extension machine, extend your legs fully, and slowly lower them back down.
Squats: Squats engage the quadriceps muscles, including the VMO, and also work the hamstrings and glutes. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, lower yourself as if sitting on a chair, and push back up to the starting position.
Lunges: Lunges effectively activate the quadriceps, including the VMO. One-leg forward stride, body lowered, push back up to starting position.
Partial squats: Partial squats are a less demanding variation of squats that still target the quadriceps, including the VMO. Lower yourself only partially, keeping your thighs parallel to the floor, and push back up.
Straight-leg raises: This exercise specifically targets the VMO by isolating it from the other quadriceps muscles. Lie on your back, extend one leg straight up, and hold for a few seconds before lowering it back down.
Additional Considerations
Warm up before performing any exercises to prevent muscle strains and injuries.
Gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercises over time to avoid overtraining.
If you experience pain or discomfort during or after exercises, stop immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
Proper form and technique are essential to maximize muscle activation and minimize injury risk.
Seek guidance from a physiotherapist or exercise specialist to develop an individualized strengthening program tailored to your specific needs and fitness level.
References
Quadriceps Strengthening Exercises - PhysioAdvisor. (2022, May 18). PhysioAdvisor. https://physioadvisor.com.au/exercises/strengthening-muscles/quadriceps
