MCQ Detailed View

The human body has more than 600 muscles, and they are grouped according to their position and function. The muscles located at the back of the thigh are called the hamstring muscles. This group is made up of three main muscles: the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus. Together, these muscles run from the pelvis down to the lower leg bones (tibia and fibula).

The hamstrings play a vital role in movement and posture. Their main function is to bend (flex) the knee joint and extend the hip joint. For example, when you run, walk, or climb stairs, the hamstrings contract to pull the leg backward and help in lifting the body. They also assist in stabilizing the pelvis when the body is standing upright.

In contrast, the gluteal muscles are located in the buttock region, not the thigh. The sartorius muscle is a long, strap-like muscle that runs diagonally across the front of the thigh, not the back. The deltoid muscle is found in the shoulder and is responsible for lifting the arm. This shows that among the given options, only hamstring is correct for the muscles at the back of the thigh.

Hamstrings are prone to injuries, especially in athletes, because they are heavily used during activities like sprinting, jumping, and sudden movements. A hamstring strain or tear is one of the most common sports injuries. Strengthening and stretching these muscles are important for maintaining flexibility, preventing injuries, and ensuring proper leg function.

Thus, the muscles located at the back of the thigh are called hamstrings, and they are essential for basic human movements like walking, running, and maintaining balance.