Soleus
Soleus
Soleus (/soʊˈliːəs/; from Latin, meaning "sandal") 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 some anatomists consider them to be a single muscle, the triceps surae. Its name is derived from the Latin word "sandal". It is considered an important muscle in proprioception, which is the body's sense of orientation.
Anatomy
The soleus is located in the superficial posterior compartment of the leg. It originates from the posterior aspect of the fibular head, the upper quarter of the posterior surface of the fibula, the middle third of the medial border of the tibia, and a tendinous arch between the tibia and fibula. The muscle fibers unite to form a broad tendon, which combines with the gastrocnemius tendon to form the Achilles tendon.
Function
The soleus is a powerful muscle that contributes to the plantar flexion of the foot at the ankle. This action is crucial during locomotion, particularly in activities like walking, running, and jumping. It also helps to maintain posture by preventing the body from falling forward at the ankle.
Clinical Significance
Injury to the soleus muscle or its tendon can result in a condition known as Soleus Syndrome, which is characterized by pain in the middle of the calf. This condition is often mistaken for a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg (deep vein thrombosis). Treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with physical therapy.
See Also
References
- Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice, 41st Edition
- Netter's Atlas of Human Anatomy, 7th Edition
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Soleus
- Wikipedia's article - Soleus
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