Soleus

Musculus soleus

A broad flat muscle in the superficial posterior compartment of the leg, deep to the gastrocnemius. It originates from the soleal line of the tibia and the posterior surface of the fibular head. It joins the gastrocnemius to form the calcaneal (Achilles) tendon.

Type Muscle
Body System Muscular
Body Region Leg
Latin Name Musculus soleus
FMA ID 22542

Function

A powerful plantarflexor of the ankle. Unlike the gastrocnemius, it acts regardless of knee position and is particularly important for postural maintenance and push-off during walking and running.

Clinical Significance

Soleus muscle pump failure contributes to venous stasis and deep vein thrombosis. Soleus tears are common calf injuries in runners. The soleus is an important clinical target for compartment syndrome assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Soleus?
A broad flat muscle in the superficial posterior compartment of the leg, deep to the gastrocnemius. It originates from the soleal line of the tibia and the posterior surface of the fibular head. It joins the gastrocnemius to form the calcaneal (Achilles) tendon.
What is the function of the Soleus?
A powerful plantarflexor of the ankle. Unlike the gastrocnemius, it acts regardless of knee position and is particularly important for postural maintenance and push-off during walking and running.
What body system is the Soleus part of?
The Soleus is part of the Muscular.
What conditions affect the Soleus?
Soleus muscle pump failure contributes to venous stasis and deep vein thrombosis. Soleus tears are common calf injuries in runners. The soleus is an important clinical target for compartment syndrome assessment.
Where is the Soleus located?
The Soleus is located in the Leg region of the body.

Related Structures

anterior internodal tract anterior internodal fasciculus aponeurosis aponeuroses atrioventricular node A-V node Bachmann's bundle anterior interatrial band Biceps brachii Musculus biceps brachii bundle of His A-V bundle cardiac muscle tissue of myocardium cardiac Purkinje fiber cardiac Purkinje fiber

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