What causes a calf muscle strain?
A strain is caused by twisting or pulling the calf muscle. An acute strain is caused by trauma or an injury such as a blow to the muscle or overstressing the calf muscle. Chronic strains are usually the result of overuse – prolonged, repetitive movement of the muscles. Contributing factors include an inadequate warm up, lack of flexibility, fatigue and insufficient strength. Symptoms • Pain: Gastrocnemius – midway up calf muscle; Soleus – lower in leg and when muscle contracts with knee bent • Difficulty contracting calf muscle or standing on toes • Audible pop sound and feeling of being hit in the calf • Swelling What can you do • Seek medical attention • Apply RICE: rest – slows down bleeding and reduces the risk of further damage; Ice – eases pain, reduces swelling, reduces bleeding initially; compression – reduces bleeding and swelling; elevation – reduces bleeding and swelling by allowing fluids to flow away from the site of injury.
