Soleus
Region: Leg & Foot Muscles · All leg & foot muscles
Soleus at a glance
| Origin | Back of the upper fibula and the soleal line of the tibia |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Back of the calcaneus via the Achilles (calcaneal) tendon |
| Actions | Points the foot downward (plantarflexion); Maintains posture when standing (works continuously) |
| Nerve supply | Tibial nerve (S1–S2) |
◆ Good to know
Called the 'second heart' because its contractions pump venous blood out of the calf; it works in standing while gastrocnemius dominates in running.
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.