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Gray's Anatomy posterior knee plate highlighting the popliteus muscle
Henry Vandyke Carter / Gray's Anatomy, Wikimedia Commons, public domain Image reference

Posterior lower leg

Popliteus

Unlocks the knee from full extension by medially rotating the tibia on the femur. and assists knee flexion and rotational control

Origin
Lateral femoral condyle and lateral meniscus
Insertion
Posterior tibia superior to the soleal line
Primary actions
Unlocks the knee from full extension by medially rotating the tibia on the femur. and assists knee flexion and rotational control

Anatomy reference

OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology 2e — Pelvic Girdle and Lower Limbs

Open reference

Educational anatomy reference only. This page does not diagnose pain, injury, or movement limitations.

From anatomy to action

Explore the movement, not just the muscle.

A single muscle rarely explains a movement by itself. Use the related movement content to see how this anatomy may contribute, then choose a focused program when you want a complete progression.

Corrective movement strategies and exercises