ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z                    HOME ABOUT CATEGORIES SITE MAP COPYRIGHT ADVERTISE CONTACT entire Web this site calf muscles Lower leg, posterior superficial view The muscles extending from the back of the knee to the heel. The gastrocnemius muscle starts behind the knee and forms the bulky part of the calf. Under it is the soleus muscle, which is longer and thinner than the gastrocnemius and starts lower down from the back of the tibia (shin). These muscles, together withe the planatarius muscles, join to form the Achilles tendon, which connects them to the heel. Contraction of the calf muscles pulls the heel up to produce a springing movement through the toes. This movement is important in walking, running, jupping, and hopping. Disorders of the calf muscles Pain can occur because of cramp, sciatica (inflammation of the sciatic nerve) or, more rarely, deep vein thrombosis. The calf muscles may be affected by claudication (a cramp-like pain brought on by walking and quickly relieved by rest). Related category    • ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) BACK TO TOP