August 10, 2023
A calf strain is a common muscle injury; if not managed appropriately, there is a risk of re-injury and prolonged recovery. Muscle strains commonly occur in the medial head of the gastrocnemius or close to the musculotendinous junction. The gastrocnemius muscle is more susceptible to injury as it is a biarthrodial muscle extending over the knee and ankle. Sudden bursts of acceleration can precipitate injury and a sudden eccentric overstretch of the muscle.
Calf muscle strain injuries occur commonly in sports involving high-speed running or increased volumes of running load, acceleration, and deceleration, as well as during fatiguing conditions of play or performance. Various sports, such as rugby, football, tennis, athletics, and dancing, are impacted by calf muscle strain injuries. In football, 92% of injuries are muscular, and 13% are calf injuries.
Calf strains are most commonly found in the medial head of the gastrocnemius. A sudden pain is felt in the calf, and the patient often reports an audible or palpable “pop” in the medial aspect of the posterior calf. Substantial pain and swelling usually develop during the following 24 hours.
Connected Whole Health‘s Chiropractic Sports Diplomates and Certified Chiropractic Sports Physicians can evaluate your calf injury properly and create a non-invasive treatment plan.
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✒️ Chief Editor: Dr. Bill Moreau | DC, DACBSP, FACSM | Chief Medical Officer University of Western States