BIOLOGY MUSCLES THAT MOVE THE FOOT

GASTROCNEMIUS

(o = condyles of femur, i = calcaneus bone by way of the calcaneal tendon): The gastrocnemius is the large, posterior, superficial calf muscle that gives your calf its shape. It is attached to the calcaneal (Achilles) tendon, which is attached to the calcaneus bone (the heel of the foot). Performs plantar flexion of foot at ankle. Flexion of leg at knee.

FIBULARIS LONGUS

(o = fibula, i= bones on bottom of foot): Lateral leg muscle, over the fibula. Pulls sole of foot laterally in foot eversion. Also, plantar flexion of foot.

SOLEUS

(o = proximal fibula and tibia, i =calcaneus bone by way of calcaneal tendon): Soleus is deep to the gastrocnemius and also attached to the calcaneal (Achilles) tendon. Plantar flexes foot. Maintains tonic postural contractions (maintains tone in muscle and maintains posture) for long periods, like when you are standing. The soleus is an important postural and locomotor muscle when standing, walking, running, and dancing.

TIBIALIS POSTERIOR

(o = proximal tibia and fibula, i = bottom of bones on the medial side of the foot): Deep to the soleus muscle in posterior calf. Pulls foot medially in foot inversion. Also performs plantar flexion of foot.

TIBIALIS ANTERIOR

(o = tibia, i = bottom of bones on the medial side of foot): This muscle is on the anterior side of the tibia. Prime mover of dorsiflexion. Also pulls sole of foot medially in foot inversion.