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Gastrocnemius

Region

Origin & Insertion

['Origin: Medial and lateral condyles of femur', 'Insertion: Posterior calcaneus via Achilles tendon']

Synergistic Muscles

['Soleus', 'Plantaris']

Joints

['Knee', 'Ankle']

Primary Actions

['Plantarflexion of ankle', 'Knee flexion']

Nerve & Spinal Segment

Tibial nerve

Sacral plexus; S1–S2

Interesting

Powerful propulsive muscle. [Moore’s]

Reversal of Action

Raise femur/pelvis over fixed foot

Common Dysfunctions

Calf tightness, Achilles tendinopathy

How to Stretch

Straight knee calf stretch against wall.

Trigger Points

How to Strengthen

Heel raises with knee extended.

Concentric Action

Plantarflex ankle (heel raise)

Applications:

Important in walking propulsion, jump power, and fall prevention

Eccentric Action

Lower slowly from heel raise

Isotonic Action

Heel raises on step

Related Conditions

['Plantar fasciitis', 'Shin splints']

Isometric Action

Hold tiptoe position

Exercise Ideas

['Calf raise', 'Jump rope', 'Hill walking']

Related Blogs

Images

Videos

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