Insertion: posterior surface of the calcaneus (via calcaneal tendon)Īction: plantarflexes foot and flexes kneeīlood supply: sural arteries (branches from the popliteal artery) Figure 1. The word gastrocnemius has Greek and Latin origin which translates as ‘stomach of the leg’. The heads of gastrocnemius combine to form the muscle belly of the characteristic calf shape and distally contribute to the formation of the calcaneal tendon. These heads form the borders of the lower section of the popliteal fossa, an important anatomical landmark for neurovascular structures. Gastrocnemius is the most superficial muscle within the posterior compartment and originates from its two heads, the medial and lateral head. These strong powerful muscles are able to propel the body forward when moving and elevate it upwards on to the toes.Īll three of the superficial muscles insert into the calcaneus (heel) via the calcaneal tendon, the most powerful tendon in the body. The large size of gastrocnemius and soleus form the typical ‘calf’ shape, which is a human trait due to our upright nature. The three muscles of the superficial group are gastrocnemius, soleus and plantaris. All muscles within the posterior compartment are innervated by the tibial nerve. These two groups are divided by a layer of deep fascia called the transverse intermuscular septum.Īs a group these muscles act to plantarflex and invert the foot, as well as flexing the toes. The muscles in the posterior compartment are arranged into two groups: the superficial group and the deep group. You might also be interested in our Anatomy Flashcard Collection which contains over 2000 anatomy flashcards in addition to advanced features such as spaced repetition.
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