What is the soleus?

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The deep calf muscle is called the soleus. Gray's Anatomy (1918) describes it as a broad, flat muscle lying beneath the gastrocnemius.

Summary

The deep calf muscle is called the soleus. Gray's Anatomy (1918) describes it as a broad, flat muscle lying beneath the gastrocnemius.

What it is

  • A broad, flat muscle lying beneath the gastrocnemius.
  • Named after its resemblance to a sole fish.
  • Points the foot downward and is essential for standing.

Where it is

  • On the back of the leg, deep to the gastrocnemius.
  • Arises from the tibia and fibula.
  • Joins the gastrocnemius to form the Achilles tendon.

Sources

According to Gray's Anatomy of the Human Body (1918, public domain):

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