Gastrocnemius

Gastrocnemius is a large muscle located at the back part of the lower leg in humans. It is one of the two major muscles that make up the calf, the other being the soleus. The gastrocnemius muscle is the larger and more superficial of the two. It is responsible for the plantar flexion of the foot at the ankle and flexion of the leg at the knee.

Anatomy

The gastrocnemius muscle originates from two heads attached to the femur, specifically the lateral and medial condyles. These two heads form the upper part of the muscle and merge into a single muscle belly which then forms a tendon, known as the Achilles tendon, that inserts onto the calcaneus bone in the foot.

Function

The primary function of the gastrocnemius is to facilitate walking, running, and jumping. It does this by causing plantar flexion of the foot, allowing the body to push off the ground, and flexion of the leg at the knee.

Clinical significance

Injury to the gastrocnemius can result in a calf strain, which is a common injury in sports that involve running and jumping. Treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). In severe cases, surgery may be required.

See also

• Soleus muscle
• Achilles tendon
• Calf strain

References

Gastrocnemius Resources
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