Anatomy
Calf Muscles and Achilles Tendon
The calf and Achilles tendon push you forward with every step. They carry several times your body weight when running and jumping.
- Gastrocnemius
- Soleus
- Achilles tendon
Where is it?
Gastrocnemius, with its two heads, forms the shape of the calf and crosses the knee. Soleus, deeper and broader, starts from the shin and fibula. Both join into the Achilles tendon, which attaches to the heel.
What does it do?
They point the foot down to push off when walking, running and jumping. Soleus works hard during sustained effort and also helps return blood flow from the leg.
Common problems
Each problem has its own detailed page: symptoms, causes, treatment and when to seek care.
How we can help
When to seek care
Book an appointment if calf or tendon pain returns with every run or limits walking. A swollen, warm or red calf without a clear injury may signal a blood clot — seek urgent medical care. A pop at the heel with loss of push-off needs prompt assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Other areas of the body
Educational content: it does not replace an assessment. Your therapist determines the cause of your symptoms in person.