Gastrocnemius (Lateral Head) (Gastroc Lat L)
The M. Gastrocnemius Caput Laterale (Gastrocnemius (Lateral Head)) is a muscle of the lower leg region. It is responsible for ankle plantar flexion, knee flexion (biarticular), push-off during walking/running. This muscle is one of 26 with official SENIAM-recommended surface EMG electrode placement. This page documents the exact electrode position, anatomical attachments and a standardized test movement based on Hermens et al. (2000).
Ankle plantar flexion, knee flexion (biarticular), push-off during walking/running
Most proximal part of the lateral muscle belly
Orientation: Parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lower leg
Hermens HJ, Freriks B, Disselhorst-Klug C, Rau G. Development of recommendations for SEMG sensors and sensor placement procedures. J Electromyogr Kinesiol. 2000;10(5):361-74.
Based on SENIAM recommendations (Hermens et al. 2000). Not an official SENIAM product. See all references \u2192
Heel raise (single leg) or plantar flexion against resistance with extended knee
Common use cases for surface EMG measurement of the M. Gastrocnemius Caput Laterale:
Most proximal part of the lateral muscle belly. Orientation: Parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lower leg. Based on the official SENIAM recommendations (Hermens et al. 2000).
Heel raise (single leg) or plantar flexion against resistance with extended knee. This movement is part of the SENIAM protocol for standardized contraction verification.
Yes. The M. Gastrocnemius Caput Laterale is one of 26 muscles for which the SENIAM project has published official surface EMG electrode placement recommendations.
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