Gastrocnemius Medial Head

Summary

Origins

• Posterior aspect of the medial condyle of the 🦴 femur

Insertions

• Posterior surface of the 🦴 calcaneus via the Achilles tendon

Actions

• Plantarflexes the ankle with the triceps surae
• Flexes the knee when the limb is weight-bearing

The medial head of the gastrocnemius drops lower than the lateral head and fills the inner contour of the calf. Its bulky belly descends toward the 🦴 calcaneus, forming a sweeping S-curve that artists can use to contrast the tighter lateral side.