Lower limb
Soleus
Musculus soleus
- Origin
- Posterior surface of the head of the fibula and the soleal line of the tibia
- Insertion
- Calcaneus, via the Achilles tendon (together with gastrocnemius)
- Function
- Plantarflexion of the ankle; important muscle for standing posture
- Innervation
- Tibial nerve (S1-S2)
- Movement & chain
- Unlike gastrocnemius, soleus only crosses the ankle joint and is most active during plantarflexion with the knee bent and during prolonged standing.
- Palpation
- Palpable on either side of the Achilles tendon, broader and deeper than gastrocnemius, especially visible during plantarflexion with the knee bent.
- Clinical
- Deep vein thrombosis often arises in the soleal sinusoids; soleus trigger points can mimic heel pain.
- Segmental innervation
- Tibial nerve, S1-S2.
- In clinical practice
- The soleus muscle pump is clinically relevant for venous return - active ankle exercises are therefore recommended after immobilization or long flights to prevent venous stasis.
- Region in the model
- Lower limb