Muscles

Vastus lateralis

Extends the knee; largest of the quadriceps.

Referred pain map

Vastus lateralis — five trigger points spread along the lateral thigh from greater trochanter to the knee: TrP1 (distal-lateral) refers focally to the lateral knee; TrP2 (lower belly) refers along the lateral shin toward the ankle; TrP3 (mid belly and upper-posterior) sends a broad band of referred pain down the entire lateral thigh; TrP4 (mid-anterior cluster) refers over the anterior thigh and knee; TrP5 (posterior near the greater trochanter) refers to the posterolateral hip — the classic 'IT band pain' and 'stuck patella' pattern from the largest quadriceps head.

Overview

Extends the knee; largest of the quadriceps. Trigger points here are common in everyday and athletic populations and frequently contribute to the referred pain patterns described below.

Trigger point locations

Lateral thigh from femur to patella.

Referred pain pattern

Lateral knee and along the IT band; can also lock the patella.

Palpation & testing

Palpate the muscle belly along its accessible course. Reproduction of the patient's familiar pain on palpation supports involvement.

Common causes

Cycling, running, sustained sitting.

Self-care & clinical treatment

Foam roll lateral thigh, gait retraining. Clinically: needling.

Symptoms commonly linked

Lateral knee pain
Anterior knee pain
Patellar tracking pain

References

• Travell & Simons — Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction