Major Muscles of the Posterior Compartment of the Leg: Attachments, Nerve Supply, and Actions

Plantaris Muscle - Structural Features and Clinical Significance

The posterior compartment of the leg houses several critical muscles responsible for movement and stability. One of these is the plantaris muscle, a small yet functionally significant structure.

Anatomical Features

• Origin: Lateral supracondylar ridge of the femur
• Insertion: Medial aspect of the calcaneus via the Achilles tendon
• Nerve Supply: Tibial nerve (S1-S2)
• Action: Weak plantar flexion of the foot and knee flexion

Clinical Significance

Though often considered vestigial, the plantaris muscle plays a role in proprioception and can be harvested for reconstructive surgeries. Ruptures of the plantaris tendon, commonly known as 'tennis leg,' result in acute pain mimicking Achilles tendon injuries.