Muscle Of The Week: What Is The VMO?

Vastus Medialis Oblique The Most Famous Quadriceps Muscle

Vastus Medialis Oblique, VMO for short makes up part of the quadriceps muscles. A group of muscles positioned at the front of the thigh. Specifically the vastus medialis sits medially, on the inside of the thigh. Combined with the three other quadriceps muscles, its primary function is to extend the knee. The VMO is considered by many as an important muscle in knee function and rehabilitation. Mainly through its roll in assisting control of the position of the kneecap. A phenomenon known in the physiotherapy industry as patella tracking.

VMO Anatomy

The VMO makes up 1/4 of the quadriceps. Of which there are four muscles, hence “quad” = four and “ceps” = head, four parts to the muscle group. The other muscles include; vastus lateralis, vastus intermedius and rectus femoris. The VMO part of the quadriceps which is positioned just above the medial aspect of the kneecap. The origin of vastus medialis oblique is off the medial side of the thigh bone (feumr), and inserts into the quadriceps tendon on the inside border of the knee cap (as pictured above). From their origin, as the name would suggest, VMO muscle fibers travel towards their insertion point at an oblique angle.

The Function Of Vastus Medialis Oblique

Vastus medialis oblique works with the other quadriceps muscles in extending the knee. And as noted above, is considered to have an important role in maintaining kneecap positioning. The ideal quadriceps contraction should allow the kneecap tracking to move smoothly and upwardly through the femoral groove. Moving as such with straighten, and controlled bending of the knee.

VMO And Patella Tracking

The VMO is significant here, considered important in keeping the kneecap “tracking” correctly in the femoral groove. It is suggested that poor contraction timing, or weakness of the VMO may play a roll in “mal-tracking” of the kneecap. Through doing so, subsequently contributes to patellofemoral pain conditions. Among other things, kneecap position is partially influenced by the balance of pull between the quadriceps muscles. Commonly diagnosed patella tracking issues are frequently considered to occur in theory partly due to either the vastus lateralis, or ITB pulling too strongly. Or, the VMO pulling too weakly. Often considered to be a little bit of column A, and a little bit of column B. Henceforth the VMO muscle is frequently targeted for specific strengthening exercises in knee rehabilitation programs.

Disclaimer: Sydney Physio Clinic does not endorse any treatments, procedures, products mentioned. This information is provided as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice. Anyone seeking specific advice or assistance regarding Muscle Of The Week: What Is The VMO? should consult his or her general practitioner, sports medicine specialist, personal trainer or physiotherapist.