The pectineus is a small, flat muscle in the upper inner thigh that helps flex and adduct the hip, pulling the leg inward toward the body’s midline. It plays a key role in stabilizing the pelvis during walking or standing. Essentially, it supports smooth leg movement and balance.
The name "pectineus" comes from the Latin word "pecten," meaning "comb," due to its comb-like shape and position near the pubic bone. It was named by early anatomists observing its structure.
Without a functioning pectineus, a person would struggle to bring their legs together or flex their hips properly, leading to difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or maintaining stability. Over time, this could strain other muscles and disrupt lower body coordination.
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