Plantaris Muscle
Origin: Lateral supracondylar ridge of the femur above the lateral head of the gastrocnemius
Insertion: Medial aspect of the posterior surface of the calcaneus, medial to the Achilles tendon.
Actions: Assists with flexion of the knee and plantarflexion of the foot at the ankle
Innervation: Tibial Nerve (S1, S2)
Blood Supply: Popliteal Artery
Primary Actions of the Plantaris Muscle
1. The plantaris muscle is not a prime mover and does not have a primary action
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Secondary Actions of the Plantaris Muscle
1. Assists with flexion of the knee
Agonists:
- Biceps Femoris
- Semitendinosus
- Semimembranosus
Antagonists:
- Vastus Lateralis
- Vastus Medialis
- Vastus Intermedius
- Rectus Femoris
2. Assists with plantarflexion of the foot at the ankle
Agonists:
- Gastrocnemius
- Soleus
Antagonists: Tibialis Anterior
Information about cause and effect of Plantaris pain: Plantaris Muscle: Pain Behind The Knee
An excellent book for those beginning the study of anatomy. Coloring helps memory retention.
For intermediary anatomy students learning skeletal and muscle structure.
For beginning and intermediary anatomy . Muscle overlays on the human body. Excellent visuals!