Soleal Venous Pump (Soleus and Gastrocnemius)

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

Soleal Venous Pump (Soleus and Gastrocnemius) at a glance

OriginPosterior tibia/fibula and femoral condyles
InsertionCalcaneus via the Achilles tendon
ActionsCompress the deep calf veins with every step, returning blood to the heart
Nerve supplyTibial 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.

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.