Calf Strain

What is a calf strain?

There are two main calf muscles which are commonly strained. The Gastrocnemius is the big muscle at the back of the lower leg which most people would think of as the calf muscle and the Soleus muscle which is a smaller muscle, laying underneath the Gastrocnemius.

These muscles are commonly strained in running and jumping activities.

Symptoms

A pain at the back of the leg which comes on suddenly
Weakness in the muscle, making it difficult to stand on tip toes or walk normally.
There may be swelling and bruising in the calf in more severe cases.
A point which is tender to touch in the muscle.

The Gastrocnemius is more commonly injured because it crosses both the ankle and knee joints. It is especially common around the area where the achilles tendon joins the muscle belly.

Treatment

Apply the RICE protocol - Rest; Ice; Compression; Elevation.
Visit a sports injury professional after a few days to get some treatment
A specialist or Doctor may recommend anti-inflammatories e.g. ibuprofen
Use ultrasound treatment.
Use sports massage (after 72 hours) to loosen the muscle fibres and increase blood flow to aid healing.
Give you strengthening and stretching exercises.

Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation of a calf muscle strain should include stretching and massage to return the muscle to its normal length and ensure there is enough movement at the ankle. Strengthening exercises should also be performed to ensure the muscle is strong enough to resist future injury. These should include calf raises.

Further Information

Calf muscle strain - for further information on treatment including rehabilitation, taping, sports massage, stretching and more visit sportsinjuryclinic.net

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