The lower leg refers to the portion of the lower extremity between the knee and ankle. This area consists of bones, muscles, tendons, and nerves that all work together to allow the leg to function.

During a physical exam, your doctor will begin by looking for noticeable changes in your lower leg. Next, they might use an x-ray to see if there is a fracture and whether the bone has been displaced.

The Anatomy of Your Calf Your calf muscle runs along the back of your lower leg, from behind your knee to the back of your ankle. It’s made up of two main muscles: the gastrocnemius and the soleus.