The popliteus muscle is a small but important muscle at the back of the knee.

Page updated September 2023 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)

popliteus muscle and tendon passing through knee capsule at the back of the knee
The tendon of the popliteus passes into the joint cavity through the capsule at the back of the lateral meniscus, on its way to the side of the femur. The tendon can be seen from inside the knee during an arthroscopy.

 

Function of the popliteus muscle

The popliteus muscle enables the leg to 'unlock' from the stable standing position of rest by laterally rotating the femur on the tibia.

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Rupture of the popliteus tendon

Isolated rupture of the popliteus tendon can occur during an injury, but it rarely occurs in isolation. Usually other structures of the posterolateral corner are also involved.

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Forum discussions

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Peer-reviewed papers

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Injury of the small muscle at the back of the knee may be confused with a torn meniscus.

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Dr Sheila Strover (Editor)
BSc (Hons), MB BCh, MBA

See biography...