GENERAL INFORMATION
The thigh triceps surae is responsible for plantar flexion of the foot, which involves pointing the foot downward, as well as assisting in flexion of the knee. It is an important muscle group for maintaining balance and stability during locomotion.
ORIGIN
- Gastrocnemius: The medial and lateral heads of the gastrocnemius originate from the posterior surfaces of the medial and lateral condyles of the femur, respectively.
- Soleus: The soleus muscle originates from the posterior surface of the head and upper third of the fibula, as well as the medial border of the tibia.
INSERTION POINT
The gastrocnemius and soleus muscles merge to form the Achilles tendon, which inserts into the calcaneus (heel bone).
MAJOR ARTERIES
The primary blood supply to the thigh triceps surae muscles comes from the following arteries:
- Popliteal artery
- Posterior tibial artery
- Peroneal artery
NEURAL INNERVATION
The thigh triceps surae muscles are innervated by the tibial nerve, which arises from the sciatic nerve. The tibial nerve provides motor innervation to the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, allowing them to contract and produce movement.
TRIGGER POINT
A common trigger point in the thigh triceps surae is in the gastrocnemius muscle belly. Trigger points in this area can cause pain and tightness, often radiating into the foot or up the back of the leg.
CONCENTRIC FUNCTION
The concentric function of the thigh triceps surae is the shortening or contraction of the muscles during movements such as rising onto the toes or pushing off the ground during walking or running.
ECCENTRIC FUNCTION
The eccentric function of the thigh triceps surae refers to the controlled lengthening of the muscles while resisting an external force. It involves movements such as lowering the heel from a raised position or decelerating the foot during landing.
ISOMETRIC FUNCTION
The isometric function of the thigh triceps surae involves contracting the muscles without any change in length. Isometric contractions of the calf muscles occur during activities like standing or maintaining balance.
RELATED MUSCLE SCIENTIFIC NAMES
- Gastrocnemius muscle (Musculus gastrocnemius)
- Soleus muscle (Musculus soleus)
ANTAGONIST
The antagonist muscle group to the thigh triceps surae is the tibialis anterior, which is responsible for dorsiflexion of the foot (bringing the foot upward).
COMMON INJURIES
- Calf strain: Overstretching or tearing of the calf muscles due to sudden movements or excessive physical activity.
- Achilles tendonitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often caused by repetitive stress or overuse.
- Calf cramps: Painful involuntary contractions of the calf muscles, typically caused by dehydration or muscle fatigue.
EXERCISES
- Calf raises: Stand on the edge of a step or platform and increase the heels to work the triceps surae muscles.
- Jumping rope: A cardiovascular exercise that also engages the calf muscles.
- Running or jogging: Activities that involve repetitive contraction of the triceps surae.
STRETCHES
- Standing calf stretch: Placing the hands against a wall, one leg is extended behind while keeping the heel on the ground, stretching the calf muscles.
- Seated calf stretch: Sitting with legs extended, a strap or towel wrapped around the foot, and gently pulling the toes towards the body to stretch the calf muscles.
- Downward-facing dog pose: A yoga pose that stretches the entire posterior chain, including the calves.