Audio LecturePro Feature Soleus 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The soleus is a muscle within the superficial compartment of the posterior leg. It is a flat muscle located underneath the gastrocnemius, and gets its name from its resemblance to a sole – a flat fish. Attachments: Originates from the soleal line of the tibia and proximal fibula. The muscle converges with the fibres of the gastrocnemius to form the calcaneal tendon, which inserts onto the calcaneus. Actions: Plantarflexion of the foot at the ankle joint. Innervation: Tibial nerve Blood supply: Posterior tibial artery By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1The muscles in the superficial layer of the posterior leg. The body of the gastrocnemius has been cut away to expose the underlying musculature. 3D ModelPro Feature You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Dissection AtlasPro Feature Prosection of the posterior leg with the proximal aspect of the gastrocnemius removed the demonstrate the underlying structures. Prosection of the posterior leg with the proximal aspect of the gastrocnemius removed the demonstrate the underlying structures. You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our Dissection Image Library Enhance your understanding with high-resolution dissection images showcasing real-life anatomy. Learn More In gratitude to our body donorsLearn more In gratitude to our body donors We are deeply grateful to the individuals who chose to donate their bodies for the advancement of medical education. Their generosity makes these images possible and provides students and healthcare professionals with an invaluable opportunity to study human anatomy. We recognise the profound contribution made by each donor and their families, and we use these images with the dignity and respect their gift deserves. Acknowledge Frequent questions What is the soleus muscle? The soleus is a flat muscle located in the superficial compartment of the posterior leg, positioned beneath the gastrocnemius. It plays a crucial role in plantarflexion at the ankle joint. Where does the soleus muscle originate? The soleus originates from the soleal line of the tibia and the proximal fibula. Its fibres merge with those of the gastrocnemius to form the calcaneal tendon. What is the primary function of the soleus? The primary function of the soleus is to facilitate plantarflexion of the foot at the ankle joint. This action is essential for activities like walking and running. How is the soleus muscle innervated? The soleus muscle is innervated by the tibial nerve. This nerve supplies the motor function necessary for the muscle's contraction. What is the blood supply to the soleus muscle? The blood supply to the soleus comes from the posterior tibial artery. This vascular supply is vital for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the muscle. Rate This Article