What does plantar flexion refer to?

Plantar flexion refers to the movement of the foot where the toes point downward towards the plantar surface, which is the sole of the foot. This action occurs at the ankle joint and involves the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles primarily. When you perform a calf raise, for instance, you are engaging in plantar flexion as you lift your heels off the ground and push through the ball of your foot.

The term "plantar" specifically relates to the underside (or sole) of the foot, while "flexion" describes the act of bending or lowering that area. Therefore, the combination of these terms accurately defines the movement that occurs when the foot is positioned downward away from the body. This terminology is crucial for understanding various movements in the context of functional anatomy, particularly when assessing activities such as walking, running, or jumping.