Which nerve commonly innervates the vastus lateralis, vastus intermedius, articularis genu, and pectineus?

Which nerve commonly innervates the vastus lateralis, vastus intermedius, articularis genu, and pectineus?

• A. Femoral nerve
• B. Obturator nerve
• C. Tibial nerve
• D. Common fibular nerve

Answer: (A)

The femoral nerve is the motor bridge here, supplying the anterior thigh muscles. It innervates the vastus lateralis and vastus intermedius as part of the quadriceps group, and it also provides the innervation to articularis genu, a small muscle that helps stabilize the knee joint during extension. The pectineus is primarily served by the femoral nerve as well, though in some people there can be a small contribution from the obturator nerve. Because this nerve consistently supplies all of these muscles, it best fits the question.

The femoral nerve is the motor bridge here, supplying the anterior thigh muscles. It innervates the vastus lateralis and vastus intermedius as part of the quadriceps group, and it also provides the innervation to articularis genu, a small muscle that helps stabilize the knee joint during extension. The pectineus is primarily served by the femoral nerve as well, though in some people there can be a small contribution from the obturator nerve. Because this nerve consistently supplies all of these muscles, it best fits the question.