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Nerve to Soleus

nervus musculi solei

The nerve to soleus arises from the tibial nerve in the popliteal fossa and posterior leg, providing multiple branches to both heads of the soleus on its deep surface. The soleus receives multiple entries from the tibial nerve at different levels — a proximal branch near the tibial nerve as it passes beneath the soleal arch, and distal branches throughout the muscle belly.

Region: Lower Leg

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The nerve to soleus is at risk during gastrocnemius-soleus recession and deep posterior compartment surgery. Selective soleus denervation produces loss of plantarflexion endurance (jogging, stair climbing) with relative preservation of gastrocnemius-dependent explosive plantarflexion. Accessory soleus muscles may have aberrant innervation requiring careful identification during tarsal tunnel surgery.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Soleus Denervation

Loss of nerve to soleus function from tibial nerve injury producing plantarflexion endurance weakness, manifesting as inability to perform sustained single-leg heel raises while retaining the ability for single explosive raises.