The question "What are the muscles in the ankle knee?" is somewhat ambiguous. It likely refers to the muscles that influence both the ankle and knee joints. Therefore, I will address the muscles of the lower leg that cross both the ankle and knee, facilitating movement at these joints.
Muscles that Cross Both Ankle and Knee
Several muscles in the lower leg are biarticular, meaning they cross and act on both the knee and ankle joints. These are crucial for coordinated movements like walking, running, and jumping.
Posterior Compartment
- Gastrocnemius: This is a large, powerful calf muscle. It has two heads that originate above the knee joint and insert onto the heel via the Achilles tendon. It primarily plantarflexes the ankle (pointing the toes) and flexes the knee (bending the knee). Because of its location, it is most effective as a plantarflexor when the knee is extended.
Lateral Compartment
- Fibularis Longus (Peroneus Longus): While primarily acting on the ankle and foot, the fibularis longus originates high on the fibula, just below the knee. It everts the foot (turning the sole outward) and plantarflexes the ankle. It also helps to stabilize the ankle.
Summary
The gastrocnemius and fibularis longus are two key muscles of the lower leg that significantly influence both the ankle and knee joints, contributing to a wide range of movements and providing stability. The gastrocnemius primarily plantarflexes the ankle and flexes the knee, while the fibularis longus everts the foot and plantarflexes the ankle.
