What is the origin of the Vastus Lateralis?

• A. Medial lip of linea aspera
• B. Lateral lip of linea aspera, gluteal tuberosity and greater trochanter
• C. Anterior shaft of femur
• D. Gluteus medius

Answer: (B)

This question tests where the vastus lateralis attaches to the femur. The muscle originates from the lateral aspect of the femur, specifically the lateral lip of the linea aspera, and also from nearby lateral surfaces such as the gluteal tuberosity and the greater trochanter. These lateral attachments give the vastus lateralis its broad origin, allowing the muscle to join the quadriceps tendon and extend the knee.

Think of the other options as clues to why this one fits: the medial lip of the linea aspera is where the vastus medialis starts, the anterior shaft of the femur is a typical origin for the vastus intermedius, and the gluteus medius originates from the ilium, not the femur.