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Plantaris

Region

Origin & Insertion

['Origin: Lateral supracondylar ridge of femur', 'Insertion: Posterior calcaneus via Achilles tendon']

Synergistic Muscles

['Gastrocnemius', 'Soleus']

Joints

['Knee', 'Ankle']

Primary Actions

['Assists plantarflexion and knee flexion']

Nerve & Spinal Segment

Tibial nerve

Sacral plexus; S1–S2

Interesting

Has a long thin tendon; sometimes absent. [Netter’s]

Reversal of Action

Lift thigh over fixed foot in coordination with hamstring

Common Dysfunctions

Posterior knee pain, often confused with Achilles injuries

How to Stretch

Same as gastrocnemius with extended knee.

Trigger Points

How to Strengthen

High rep heel raises.

Concentric Action

Assists plantarflexion and knee flexion

Applications:

Small muscle often involved in Achilles or postural chain rehab

Eccentric Action

Control descent from tiptoe with bent knee

Isotonic Action

Heel raises with bent knees

Related Conditions

['Tennis leg', 'Achilles strain']

Isometric Action

Maintain calf engagement in bent knee position

Exercise Ideas

['Ankle pump', 'Toe raises', 'Stair climbing']

Related Blogs

Images

Videos

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