Muscle Breakdown: Adductor Magnus
Table of Contents
What Is the Adductor Magnus
The Adductor Magnus is the largest and most powerful adductor of the medial thigh.
Adductor Magnus Muscle & Cadaver
Adductor Magnus Function
The Adductor Magnus is the largest and strongest muscle of the medial adductors of the thigh. The Adductor Magnus is unique compared to the other adductors because it also crosses into the posterior thigh. The primary function of the Adductor Magnus is adduction of the thigh, however, since the muscle spans both into both the medial and posterior thigh it performs additional functions. Some of these functions include,
Flexion of the thigh
External rotation of the thigh
Internal rotation of the thigh
Extension of the tight
Overall stabilization of the pelvis
Adductor Magnus Origin And Insertion
Adductor Magnus Origin
The Adductor Magnus originates from the Inferior Pubic Ramus and the Ischial Tuberosity.
Adductor Magnus Insertion
The Adductor Magnus inserts into the Linea Aspera of the Femur, the Gluteal Tuberosity, Medial Supracondylar Line, and the Adductor Tubercle of the Femur.
Adductor Magnus Innervation
The Adductor Magus is innervated by both the Obturator Nerve, and the Sciatic Nerve. The Adductor Magnus has two innervations because of its location in both the medial and posterior thigh.
Adductor Magnus Action
The Adductor Magnus helps to perform many movements. Some of these movements include,
Sports that involve running or kicking (i.e. soccer, football)
Walking
Skating or Skiing
Helps us balance
Adductor Magnus Pain
Pain in the Adductor Magnus can occur for a variety of different reasons. Muscle overuse can often result in a sore, achy muscle. This is a good indication that you just worked really hard and need to give the muscle time to rest. Sore muscles are most likely not a reason to be concerned, however, when this soreness transitions into pain you need to pay attention to the body. Pain in the Adductor Magnus can be from a strain or tear to the muscle. In either case, you should visit your doctor right away to prevent further injury from occurring.
Adductor Magnus Strain
Symptoms of pain, swelling, tenderness and difficulty bringing the knees together can indicate a strain to the Adductor Magnus. A strain to the Adductor Magnus is often the result of rapid deceleration and rotation of the muscle, resulting in an overstretch. Repeated eccentric contractions of the Adductor Magnus can contribute to an overuse injury, which can also lead to a muscle strain. Treatment for a strain to the Adductor Magnus is conservative, consisting of rest, ice, heat and Physiotherapy to rehabilitate the muscle.
Adductor Magnus Tendon
The Adductor Magnus Tendon is located near the insertion point of the muscle. Often, tendons can be subject to tears and overuse. The result of this is pain and inflammation which require rest and ice to heal. Irritated tendons most often come from muscle overuse, so when you start to feel pain around the Adductor Magnus Tendon, it is best to take a break from activity to allow for proper healing.
Adductor Magnus Exercises
Adductor Magnus Stretches
There are many stretches for the Adductor Magnus. Any stretches for the other adductors of the thigh will also engage the Adductor Magnus. Keep reading below for a few examples.
Standing Stretch
Using a table at about hip height, place one foot on its surface. Adjust your position to the table so your elevated leg can be as straight as possible. Lean forwards to increase the intensity of the stretch. Hold this position for 30 seconds and then switch legs.
Angle Stretch
Sit down on the floor with your feet extended in front of you. Bring your heels towards the bum to bend your knees. Drop each knee to either side of the body to form a diamond with your legs. Lean the torso forwards to increase the stretch. Hold this position for 30 seconds.
Lying Adductor Magnus Stretch
To perform the Lying Adductor Magnus Stretch, lie down on the floor on your back. Bring one knee up the chest, and use your hand to bring the thigh as close to the body as possible without lifting your back. Angle the thigh towards the armpit to feel the stretch in the posterior and medial thigh. Hold this position for 30 seconds and then switch legs.
