Calf Muscle Strain (Aka Tennis Calf)
A calf muscle strain is a tear of the muscle from the tendon at the junction of the calf muscle (usually inner muscle) from its corresponding tendon – usually about halfway between the knee and heel. Symptoms are characterized as sudden sharp pain at the back of the leg. Often patients describe a feeling like someone or something has hit them in the calf. Difficulty in contracting the calf muscle, difficulty standing on tip toe, pain, swelling and/or bruising in the calf muscle are signs of a calf strain. The diagnosis of an Achilles rupture can be made with physical examination by a physician and usually confirmed with an MRI.
Recommendations:
- Consult a physician if you think you sustained a calf strain
- Acute treatment starts with reduction of inflammation - RICE regimen (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation). Immobilization should take place in and Ankle and/or Achilles support
- Stretch before, during, and after an activity, for muscle and tendon flexibility to aid in injury prevention
- Vigorous ankle strengthening program and cross-training to build endurance and prevent injuries due to fatigue
- Use Shoe Insets, Heel Cups and Foot Orthotics to help correct foot problems which may be contributing to Calf Strain