Pronunciation: [plˈantɑːɹˌɪs] (IPA) 
The word "plantaris" is spelled with the letter combination "pl" followed by "ant" and "aris". In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /plænˈteərɪs/. The "pl" sound is a combination of the "p" and "l" sounds, while "ant" is pronounced like "ant" in "antenna". Finally, "aris" is pronounced like "air" in "pair". The word "plantaris" refers to a muscle found in the calf of the leg.
The plantaris is a small, slender muscle located in the lower leg of humans. It runs from the posterior aspect of the lateral condyle of the femur (found in the upper leg bone) to the posterior aspect of the calcaneus (heel bone). The term "plantaris" is derived from the Latin word "planta," which means sole of the foot, indicating its proximity and relation to this area.
Although considered non-essential for normal human locomotion, the plantaris plays a minor role in knee flexion and ankle plantarflexion. Its relatively weak force production and limited range of motion are compensated by other muscles in the leg, such as the gastrocnemius and soleus. The plantaris is often referred to as a vestigial muscle, as its function in humans has diminished throughout evolution but can still be present. Its presence aids in distinguishing human anatomy from certain primates, as it is typically absent or significantly reduced in other mammals.
Given its small size and minimal functional significance, the plantaris is often used as a graft source for reconstructive surgeries, tendon repair, or muscle transfers. This muscle also serves as a common site for harvesting autograft tissue during procedures like anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.
In summary, the plantaris is a slender muscle located in the lower leg that assists in minimal knee and ankle movement. While it is not essential for normal movement, its presence and anatomical characteristics have important medical and surgical implications.
See under musculus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word plantaris comes from Latin. It is derived from the Latin noun planta, which means sole or sole of the foot. The suffix -aris indicates its association or connection to the sole of the foot. Therefore, plantaris is Latin for relating to the sole (of the foot).
