Pectineus Muscle
Origin: Pectineal line of the pubis the superior pubic ramus
Insertion: The lesser trochanter to the linea aspera
Actions: Assists with flexion and adduction of the thigh
Innervation: Anterior division of the femoral nerve (L2. L3). Occasionally the obturator nerve (L2, L3)
Blood Supply: Branches from the internal iliac and profunda femoris arteries
Primary Actions of the Pectineus
1. Because of its size, the pectineus does not have a prime action, it assists other muscles.
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Secondary Actions of the Pectineus
1. Assists with flexion of the thigh at the hip
Agonists:
- Psoas major
- Iliacus
Antagonists:
- Gluteus maximus
- Semitendinosus
- Semimembranosus
- Biceps femoris (long head)
- Adductor magnus (posterior part)
Rectus femoris, sartorius, and psoas minor also assist with flexion of the thigh at the hip.
2. Assists with adduction of the thigh at the hip
Agonists:
- Adductor longus
- Adductor brevis
- Adductor magnus (anterior part)
Antagonists:
- Gluteus maximus (upper fibers)
- Gluteus medius
- Gluteus minimus
Gracilis also assists with adduction of the thigh at the hip.
Muscle Pain Information: The pectineus muscle is a major contributor to groin pain.
An excellent book for those beginning the study of anatomy. Coloring helps memory retention.
For intermediary anatomy students learning skeletal and muscle structure.
For beginning and intermediary anatomy . Muscle overlays on the human body. Excellent visuals!