L5.5.7.2.2: Posterior Lower Leg

• POSTERIOR LOWER LEG

  [a] Gastrocnemius

  [b] Calcaneal (Achilles Tendon)

  
• Gastrocnemius

  ○ Two-bellied muscle

  ○ Forms the curved calf of the posterior leg

  ○ Arises by two heads, one from each side of the distal femur

  ○ Inserts through the large calcaneal tendon into the heel of the foot

  ○ Prime mover for plantar flexion
• Calcaneal (Achilles Tendon)

  ○ Tough band of fibrous tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus)