What action does the adductor magnus perform?

What action does the adductor magnus perform?

• A. Adduction and medial rotation of thigh
• B. Flexion of thigh
• C. Abduction
• D. Extension of thigh

Answer: (A)

The main action tested is thigh adduction with medial rotation. The adductor magnus has two parts: an anterior/adductor portion and a posterior/hamstring portion. The primary function of the muscle as a whole is to bring the thigh toward the midline (adduction) and to rotate it inward (medial rotation). The posterior part can extend the thigh, which is why extension can occur, but the prominent, defining action described here is adduction plus medial rotation. Abduction would be the opposite movement, flexion is not its primary function, and extension is only contributed by the hamstring portion, not the main action of the entire muscle.

The main action tested is thigh adduction with medial rotation. The adductor magnus has two parts: an anterior/adductor portion and a posterior/hamstring portion. The primary function of the muscle as a whole is to bring the thigh toward the midline (adduction) and to rotate it inward (medial rotation). The posterior part can extend the thigh, which is why extension can occur, but the prominent, defining action described here is adduction plus medial rotation. Abduction would be the opposite movement, flexion is not its primary function, and extension is only contributed by the hamstring portion, not the main action of the entire muscle.