Muscle Names · Muscular System · Hard

Plantaris

Meaning: A small, vestigial muscle in the calf with a long thin tendon running to the heel.

In practice: A plantaris rupture causes a sudden sharp pain in the calf, mimicking an Achilles injury.

Quick check

Two questions on related muscle names words.

Which word means: A muscle on the front or back of the lower leg acting on the ankle and foot.

Which word means: The jaw muscle used for chewing.

One medical word a day, then a quick three-question quiz. Free on iPhone, or play in your browser on Android and computer.