Vastus Lateralis: Understanding the Outer Thigh Muscle - Anatomy & Thickness

Name of the Outer Thigh Muscle

The outer thigh muscle is called the vastus lateralis.

Thickness of the Vastus Lateralis

The thickness of the vastus lateralis can vary depending on a number of factors, such as age, gender, ethnicity, and activity level. However, on average, the vastus lateralis is approximately 2-3 inches thick.

The vastus lateralis is one of the four quadriceps muscles, which are located on the front of the thigh. The quadriceps are responsible for extending the knee joint and are important for activities such as walking, running, and squatting.

The vastus lateralis is the largest of the four quadriceps muscles and is located on the lateral (outer) side of the thigh. It originates from the intertrochanteric line of the femur (thigh bone) and inserts into the tibial tuberosity (shin bone).

The vastus lateralis is innervated by the femoral nerve and is supplied by the femoral artery.