Posterior Thigh Muscles
Hamstrings
- Posterior compartment of the thigh muscles are collectively referred to as the "hamstrings" muscles.
- They produce thigh extension and leg flexion.
Key Muscles
Biceps femoris (short head) (of hamstrings)
- Originates on the linea aspera of the femur.
- Originates on the ischial tuberosity
Both heads of biceps femoris insert on the fibular head, which allows them to laterally rotate the leg.
Semitendinosus & Semimembranosus
- Originate on the ischial tuberosity
- Insert on the medial tibial condyle, which allows them to medially rotate the leg.
- Semitendinosus lies superficial to semimembranosus;
- Semitendinosus is relatively thin, and terminates in a long cord-like tendon;
- Semimembranosus is relatively wide, and terminates in a flat, membranous tendon.