Popliteus
Region: Leg & Foot Muscles · All leg & foot muscles
Popliteus at a glance
| Origin | Lateral surface of the lateral femoral condyle |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Back of the tibia above the soleal line |
| Actions | Unlocks the knee by rotating the leg outward on the femur; Begins knee flexion; Stabilises the back of the knee |
| Nerve supply | Tibial nerve (L4–S1) |
◆ Good to know
The key that unlocks the fully extended knee so flexion can start; its tendon also braces the lateral meniscus.
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.