Adductor longus

A prominent muscle located in the inner thigh, essential for leg movement and stabilization.

A flat, triangular muscle situated in the medial compartment of the thigh. The adductor longus primarily functions to adduct, flex, and laterally rotate the thigh. It is critical for various movements, particularly those involving the legs during activities such as walking, running, and squatting.

Terminologia Anatomica

musculus-adductor-longus

System

Musculoskeletal system

Function

The adductor longus plays a vital role in the mobility and stability of the lower body. By facilitating the adduction of the thigh, it allows the legs to move toward the body’s midline. This function is particularly important in activities that require lateral movement or quick changes in direction, such as sports. Additionally, the muscle assists in flexing the hip joint, contributing to actions like kicking a soccer ball or pedaling a bicycle. The adductor longus also works in conjunction with other adductor muscles to maintain balance and stability during standing and dynamic activities, making it essential for overall lower limb function.

Location

Located in the inner thigh, the adductor longus originates from the pubis, specifically the pubic crest and the pubic symphysis. It extends downward towards its insertion point on the middle third of the linea aspera of the femur. The proximity of the adductor longus to other muscles in the medial thigh, including the adductor brevis and adductor magnus, places it in a strategic position to work cohesively with these muscles during movements of the leg. Its placement not only allows for efficient force generation in thigh movements but also assists in stabilizing the pelvis during activities.

Did You Know?

The adductor longus is often used in exercises aimed at strengthening the inner thigh, impacting overall muscle tone and athletic performance.
Injury to the adductor longus can lead to groin strains, a common issue among athletes involved in sports requiring sudden changes in direction.
The muscle derives its name from the Latin 'adducere', which means 'to lead towards'.