Muscles
Vastus medialis
Extends the knee; oblique fibers (VMO) stabilize the patella medially.
Overview
Extends the knee; oblique fibers (VMO) stabilize the patella medially. Trigger points here are common in everyday and athletic populations and frequently contribute to the referred pain patterns described below.
Trigger point locations
Anteromedial thigh just above the medial knee.
Referred pain pattern
Medial knee pain that buckles unexpectedly.
Palpation & testing
Palpate the muscle belly along its accessible course. Reproduction of the patient's familiar pain on palpation supports involvement.
Common causes
Patellofemoral overload, post-surgical disuse.
Self-care & clinical treatment
Terminal knee extension, step-down drills. Clinically: needling.
Symptoms commonly linked
References
- • Travell & Simons — Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction