Soleal Venous Pump (Soleus and Gastrocnemius)
Region: Leg & Foot Muscles · All leg & foot muscles
Soleal Venous Pump (Soleus and Gastrocnemius) at a glance
| Origin | Posterior tibia/fibula and femoral condyles |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Calcaneus via the Achilles tendon |
| Actions | Compress the deep calf veins with every step, returning blood to the heart |
| Nerve supply | Tibial nerve (S1–S2) |
◆ Good to know
The calf pump is why walking is prescribed after surgery and on long flights — each contraction empties the soleal venous sinuses toward the heart.
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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.