What action does the pectineus do?

What action does the pectineus do?

• A. Hip abduction
• B. Hip adduction and flexion
• C. External rotation
• D. Extension

Answer: (B)

The pectineus mainly flexes and adducts the hip. It arises from the superior pubic ramus and inserts along the pectineal line of the femur, so when it contracts the thigh is drawn forward (flexion) and toward the midline (adduction). Its front-of-thigh position means it does not function as a primary abductor, external rotator, or hip extensor. Some fibers can contribute a minor amount to medial rotation due to their anterior orientation, but the dominant actions are flexion and adduction, making that option the best fit.

The pectineus mainly flexes and adducts the hip. It arises from the superior pubic ramus and inserts along the pectineal line of the femur, so when it contracts the thigh is drawn forward (flexion) and toward the midline (adduction). Its front-of-thigh position means it does not function as a primary abductor, external rotator, or hip extensor. Some fibers can contribute a minor amount to medial rotation due to their anterior orientation, but the dominant actions are flexion and adduction, making that option the best fit.