Soleus

This course describes the anatomy and integrated function of the soleus muscle (a.k.a. deep calf muscle, calves). This muscle is located on the posterior tibia and fibula, in the posterior compartment, joins the gastrocnemius muscle at the Achilles tendon to form the calf complex, and inserts into the calcaneus (heel bone). This muscle is innervated by the tibial nerve, composed primarily of type I muscle fibers, and unlike the gastrocnemius muscle, only crosses the ankle joint (a.k.a. talocrural or tibiotalar joint).

The soleus is the primary plantar flexor of the ankle, and some research shows it may play a role in inversion or eversion depending on the position of the calcaneus (heel bone). This course also describes the role of the soleus in ankle joint arthrokinematics, fascial integration (Achilles tendon and posterior crural fascia), postural dysfunction, and subsystem integration. Additionally, the location of the soleus is discussed relative to the posterior popliteal artery, tibial artery, peroneal artery, tibial nerve, peroneal nerve, sural cutaneous nerves, and fascial sheaths that comprise the anterior and posterior borders of the posterior compartment.

Sports medicine professionals (personal trainers, fitness instructors, physical therapists, massage therapists, chiropractors, occupational therapists, athletic trainers, etc.) must be aware of the soleus and ankle plantar flexors for the analysis of human movement, and the development of sophisticated exercise programs and therapeutic (rehabilitation) interventions. Further, this course is essential knowledge for future courses discussing injury prevention and physical rehabilitation including muscle pain (e.g. muscle pain, posterior compartment pain, calf pain, knee pain), soleus injuries (calf strain, soleus strain, accessory soleus muscle strain), and other associated lower limb injuries (tibial nerve entrapment, plantar fasciitis, ankle impingement, shin splints, Achilles tendinopathy, Achilles tendon rupture). This course also begins by introducing a repertoire of soleus-specific exercises and techniques with the intent of improving ankle dorsiflexion, or enhancing lower limb muscle strength and force development during plantar flexion (e.g. calf foam rolling, soleus release, soleus stretching, neuromuscular re-education, and strength exercises for enhancing daily physical activity).

Brookbush Institute’s most recommended techniques for the Soleus (see videos below):

• Release: Soleus Foam Rolling
• Manual Techniques: Soleus Static Manual Release
• Mobilization: Self-Administered Ankle Mobilization
• Stretch: Calf Stretch on Slant Board (or Modified Calf Stretch)
• Integration: Single Leg Cobra to Balance to Calf Raise

Caption: The soleus on the tibia