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Gastrocnemius
Region: Leg & Foot Muscles · All leg & foot muscles
Gastrocnemius at a glance
| Origin | Posterior surfaces of the medial and lateral femoral condyles |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Back of the calcaneus via the Achilles (calcaneal) tendon |
| Actions | Points the foot downward (plantarflexion); Bends the knee; Raises the heel in walking and running |
| Nerve supply | Tibial nerve (S1–S2) |
◆ Good to know
The calf's main spring for push-off; a sudden tear of its medial head is the classic 'tennis leg'.
More Leg & Foot Muscles
Please note: This page is an anatomy education summary for students and curious readers, not medical advice. Attachment points are given in their classic short form; individual anatomy varies, and detailed dissection-level descriptions belong in an anatomy atlas.