What do gastrocnemius muscles do

But for some reason, one of the most common injuries to the gastrocnemius gives me the willies. Brace yourself. Okay, here goes. A calf strain is a particularly common injury to athletes. It is a tear to either the gastrocnemius or the soleus, and is most common in the medial head of the gastrocnemius.

The muscle is at high risk for tears because it crosses two joints the knee and the ankle and has a high density of fast-twitch muscle fibers which gives it the ability for powerful "bursts" of movement. Sometimes when the gastrocnemius is being overworked, the muscles will contract or snap quickly, like a whip, which is why gastrocnemius strains are sometimes called "snap of the whip.

I know, it doesn't seem like something that would make me shudder, but the thought of muscles ripping makes me queasy. Another common ailment not so much an injury is a cramp to the gastrocnemius. Have you ever done a full body stretch and your calf muscles seize suddenly? The gastrocnemius is prone to spasms, which are painful contractions of the muscle that won't subside for several minutes. While the exact reason for this is unclear, cramping and spasms are sometimes caused by dehydration, poor blood flow, and short range of movement.

These spasms are more common at night; I can't tell you how many times I've woken up suddenly with cramped calves. It's one of the worst pains I've ever felt. Overuse of the gastrocnemius can also cause swelling and pain. So, long story short: ease up on your poor gastrocnemius and you'll be good to go. Be sure to subscribe to the Visible Body Blog for more anatomy awesomeness! Are you an instructor? We have award-winning 3D products and resources for your anatomy and physiology course!

Learn more here. When you select "Subscribe" you will start receiving our email newsletter. Use the links at the bottom of any email to manage the type of emails you receive or to unsubscribe. See our privacy policy for additional details. Welcome to the Visible Body Blog! Learn Muscle Anatomy: Gastrocnemius. What does the gastrocnemius do? Gastrocnemius Attachments Like I said before, the gastrocnemius is one cool-looking muscle.

Gastrocnemius Strains, Tears, and Other Injuries I don't know how squeamish you are, dear reader, but not a whole lot phases me. Subscribe Here!

Most Popular. Get our awesome anatomy emails! It arises from the large sciatic nerve. The tibial portion is mainly served by the first and second sacral nerves from your lower back. Your healthcare provider is examining the function of this nerve when she tests your deep tendon reflexes with a small hammer. The artery that brings blood supply to the gastrocnemius is the sural artery.

This artery arises from the popliteal artery behind your knee. The main function of the gastrocnemius muscle is to plantarflex your ankle. This means that as your gastroc contracts, your ankle and toes point down.

When walking, running, or climbing stairs, the muscle works to flex your ankle and propel you forward. The muscle is considered one of the "anti-gravity" muscles.

It works along with the quadriceps and gluteus muscles to help raise our bodies up against the force of gravity. When your foot is planted on the ground, the gastrocnemius also acts to stabilize your foot and ankle.

Since the gastrocnemius crosses the knee joint in the back, it is considered a two joint muscle. Therefore, it not only acts on the ankle but the knee as well. The function of the gastroc at the knee is to work with your hamstrings to flex, or bend, your knee joint. Because it is a two joint muscle, the gastrocnemius is prone to quite a bit of use, and overuse, while functioning.

This can lead to problems with the muscle. Quite a few conditions can affect the calf muscles of your lower legs. These may include:. If you have pain or limited mobility in your gastrocnemius, it is important to see your healthcare provider.

He or she can diagnose your condition and help get you on track to recovery. If you have suffered an injury to your gastrocnemius, your healthcare provider can determine the nature of your condition and can help guide you to the best treatment for you. Working with a physical therapist may be a good idea to help with various gastrocnemius injuries. Initial treatment for many gastrocnemius injuries typically includes a period of rest or immobilization. This allows your calf muscle to heal so you can start restoring flexibility and strength to the muscle.

Your healthcare provider may have you use an assistive device like a cane or crutches to walk to help decrease force through your gastrocnemius during this healing time. Once a short period of rest is complete, rehabilitation to your calf can begin.

Rehab for your gastrocnemius depends on the severity and type of injury you have suffered, and your PT will likely use various treatments to help you fully recover. Recovery from a gastrocnemius injury can take anywhere from two to twelve weeks depending on the severity of the injury. Speak with your healthcare provider or physical therapist to understand your specific prognosis and what to expect from your gastroc rehab.

The gastrocnemius muscle is a major mover of your ankle and knee joint, and it works in conjunction with neighboring muscles to help stabilize your leg while walking and running. It is also prone to various injuries and conditions. Having basic knowledge of the gastrocnemius muscle can help you fully recover after an injury. That way, you can quickly get back to your normal activity and function. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life.

Anatomical aspects of the gastrocnemius muscles: A study in 47 fresh cadavers. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for VerywellHealth. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page.

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