Hip, Upper Leg, and Lower Leg Muscles

8. Hip Muscles

  • Gluteus Maximus: Extends and laterally rotates the thigh; involved in movements like climbing stairs.

  • Gluteus Medius: Abducts and medially rotates the thigh; stabilizes the pelvis during walking.

9. Upper Leg Muscles

  • Tensor Fasciae Latae: Stabilizes and abducts the hip.

  • Sartorius: Flexes, abducts, and laterally rotates the thigh.

  • Adductor Magnus: Adducts, extends, and medially rotates the thigh.

  • Vastus Lateralis and Vastus Medialis: Extend the knee.

  • Rectus Femoris: Flexes the hip and extends the knee.

  • Semimembranosus and Semitendinosus: Flex the knee and extend the hip.

  • Iliopsoas: Flexes the hip.

  • Gracilis: Adducts the thigh.

  • Biceps Femoris: Flexes the knee and extends the hip.

10. Muscles of the Lower Leg

  • Tibialis Anterior: Dorsiflexes and inverts the foot.

  • Soleus: Plantar flexes the foot.

  • Fibularis (Peroneus) Brevis and Longus: Plantar flex and evert the foot.

  • Extensor Digitorum Longus: Extends the toes.

  • Gastrocnemius: Plantar flexes the foot and assists in knee flexion.

  • Popliteus: Unlocks the knee joint.

  • Calcanean (Achilles) Tendon: Connects the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) to the heel bone, allowing for plantar flexion.