Leg Posterior Muscle Compartment Injuries

Abstract

In this chapter we describe the anatomy of the posterior compartment muscle groups in the calf, including the gastrocnemius, soleus, plantaris, popliteus and others. The anatomy, pathophysiology, clinical signs, and imaging findings of each muscle are explained. Posterior calf pain is a frequently encountered clinical symptom in practice. Owing to its accessibility and relative low cost, ultrasound is the first step for imaging evaluation. For professional athletes, however, MRI remains the ``gold standard{''} for imaging of muscle injuries.