Popliteus

Region: Leg & Foot Muscles · All leg & foot muscles

Popliteus at a glance

OriginLateral surface of the lateral femoral condyle
InsertionBack of the tibia above the soleal line
ActionsUnlocks the knee by rotating the leg outward on the femur; Begins knee flexion; Stabilises the back of the knee
Nerve supplyTibial 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.

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.