| Muscle | Origin | Insertion | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Ischial tuberosity & Ischiopubic ramus | Linea aspera & Adductor tubercle | | Adductor Longus | Superior ramus of pubis | Middle linea aspera | | Adductor Brevis | Inferior ramus of pubis | Upper linea aspera | | Pectineus | Pectineal line of pubis | Pectineal line of femur | | Gracilis | Inferior ramus of pubis & ischium | Medial proximal tibia |
When a sprinter pulls their groin, it is often an Adductor Longus strain near its origin at the pubic bone. Knowing the anatomy helps clinicians diagnose exactly which muscle belly has been compromised.
The most superficial muscle in the group, it forms part of the floor of the femoral triangle .
The Obturator nerve passes through the adductor group. Swelling or tightness in these muscles (specifically the origins near the obturator foramen) can lead to referred pain down the inner thigh, mimicking a hip issue.
(from lateral to medial, but helps order them):
If you ask most gym-goers to name a leg muscle, they will likely point to the quadriceps or the hamstrings. But tucked away on the inner thigh is a powerhouse group responsible for stability, balance, and powerful leg movement:
Located deep to the Adductor Longus but superficial to the Adductor Magnus, the Brevis acts as a bridge between the two.