Soleus

Soleus

The Soleus is a powerful muscle in the back part of the lower leg (the calf). It runs from just below the knee to the heel, and is involved in standing and walking. It is closely connected to the gastrocnemius muscle and is located in the superficial posterior compartment of the leg.

Anatomy

The soleus is located in the superficial posterior compartment of the leg. One of the functions of the soleus is plantar flexion of the foot at the ankle. This action is crucial in walking. The soleus selectively contracts, providing sustained, 'background' partial contraction to steady the leg on the head of the tibia.

Function

The soleus is a biarticular muscle, meaning that it helps to control two joints, the ankle and the knee. The soleus muscle is responsible for powerful plantar flexion of the foot, an action that is crucial for walking, running, and jumping. It also helps to stabilize the tibia on the calcaneus.

Clinical significance

Injury to the soleus muscle can be painful and can cause significant disability. The most common injury to the soleus is a muscle strain where the muscle fibers tear as a result of overstretching. Treatment of soleus injuries depends on the severity of the injury, but often includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). In severe cases, surgery may be required.

See also

• Gastrocnemius muscle
• Calf
• Tibia
• Calcaneus

References

Soleus Resources
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