Gastrocnemius

Question 1

Where does the gastrocnemius originate from and insert into?

Answer 1

The medial head of the gastrocnemius originates from the medial condyle of the femur, while the lateral head originates from the lateral condyle.

The gastrocnemius joins with the soleus to form the Achilles tendon and insert into the posterior surface of the calcaneus.

Question 2

Which nerve innervates the gastrocnemius?

Answer 2

The tibial nerve (branched off from the sciatic nerve) innervates the gastrocnemius.

Question 3

Which movements does the gastrocnemius contribute to?

Answer 3

The gastrocnemius contributes to plantar flexion at the ankle and knee flexion.