Calf
Calf (anatomy)
The Calf (pronounced: /kaf/) is the back portion of the lower leg in humans. It is located between the knee and the ankle. The calf is made up of two muscles: the gastrocnemius and the soleus. These muscles meet at the Achilles tendon, which attaches directly to the heel bone.
Etymology
The term "calf" comes from the Old English calf, which is akin to the Old Norse kalfr and the German Kalb, all meaning "calf". In anatomy, the term was first used to refer to this part of the leg in the 14th century.
Related Terms
- Gastrocnemius: The larger calf muscle that originates behind the knee on the femur, and with the soleus muscle, forms the Achilles tendon at the heel of the foot.
- Soleus: 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.
- Achilles tendon: A tough band of fibrous tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus). The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. It allows you to rise up on your toes and push off while walking or running.
- Ankle: The joint connecting the foot with the leg.
- Knee: The joint between the thigh and the lower leg in humans.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Calf
- Wikipedia's article - Calf
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