The popliteus is a muscle within the deep compartment of the posterior leg. It lies behind the knee joint, forming the base of the popliteal fossa.
- Attachments: Originates from the lateral condyle of the femur and the lateral meniscus of the knee joint. It inserts onto the proximal tibia, immediately above the origin of the soleus muscle.
- Actions: Lateral rotation of the femur relative to the tibia. This ‘unlocks’ the knee joint so that flexion can occur.
- Innervation: Tibial nerve
- Blood supply: Popliteal artery