Posterior compartment of leg

Anatomical compartment of the leg

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Synonyms
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Carnegie stage
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Precursor
Gives rise to
Part of

The posterior compartment of the leg is one of the four compartments of the leg. It is divided into two sub-compartments: the superficial posterior compartment and the deep posterior compartment. This compartment is primarily involved in plantarflexion of the foot and toes.

Anatomy

The posterior compartment is bordered by the tibia and fibula bones, the interosseous membrane, and the deep fascia of the leg.

Superficial Posterior Compartment

The superficial posterior compartment contains the following muscles:

• Gastrocnemius muscle
• Soleus muscle
• Plantaris muscle

These muscles are primarily responsible for plantarflexion of the foot at the ankle joint.

Deep Posterior Compartment

The deep posterior compartment contains the following muscles:

• Tibialis posterior muscle
• Flexor digitorum longus muscle
• Flexor hallucis longus muscle
• Popliteus muscle

These muscles are involved in plantarflexion of the foot and toes, as well as inversion of the foot.

Blood Supply

The blood supply to the posterior compartment of the leg is provided by the posterior tibial artery and the fibular artery. Venous return is through the posterior tibial vein and the fibular vein.

Innervation

The tibial nerve innervates the muscles of the posterior compartment. This nerve is a branch of the sciatic nerve and provides motor and sensory functions to the lower leg and foot.

Clinical Significance

Conditions affecting the posterior compartment of the leg include compartment syndrome, which is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment to prevent permanent damage to the muscles and nerves.

See Also

• Anterior compartment of leg
• Lateral compartment of leg
• Medial compartment of thigh

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