- To the thigh musculature overview
- To the musculature overview
The Musculus semimembranosus (flat tendon muscle) consists of a 5 cm wide and approx. 3 cm thick muscle belly. It originates from the ischial tuberosity with a broad, flat tendon, which gives it its name. However, the muscle develops only below the middle of the thigh, and is clearly visible and palpable as a bulge under the skin.
Synonyms
German: PlattsehnenmuskelAnsatz: Origin: ischial tuberosity (Tuber ischiadicum) Innervation: N. tibialis, L 4 – 5, S 1 – 2
- Internal tibial bone (Condylus medialis tibiae)
- Back wall of the knee joint capsule (Lig. Popliteum obliquum)
- Fascia of the popliteal muscle (fascia m. poplitea)
The M. Semimemranosus (flat tendon muscle) is contracted by stretching the hip joint and bending the knee joint. This results in the following exercises:
- Squats
- Leg press
- Leg curl
The stretching exercises for the area of the back thigh are perceived by many as very uncomfortable.
The athlete stands with closed, stretched legs and tries to touch the tips of the toes with his fingers. The back should be kept straight. Note: Athletes who cannot perform this exercise usually do not have a shortened muscle, but only immobility.
In addition to the flat tendon muscle, this exercise stretches the biceps femoris and the semitendinosus. Note: Athletes who cannot perform this exercise usually do not have a shortened muscle, but only immobility. In addition to the flat tendon muscle, the biceps femoris and the semitendinosus are stretched in this exercise.
Function
Like the M. semitendinosus, the M. semimembranosus (flat tendon muscle) causes a flexion of the lower leg in the knee joint. It also acts as an internal rotator of the knee joint and extensor of the hip joint. You can find information on all movement directions of the joints under Movement Forms
